Fernandez v. United States · ¶37

While Congress has not defined the “extraordinary and compelling reasons” that may warrant a reduced sentence, these criteria are not empty vessels. “Extraordinary” means “most unusual,” “far from common,” and “having little or no precedent.” Webster's Third New International Dictionary 807 (1976); see 5 Oxford English Dictionary 614 (2d ed. 1989) (“[o]ut of the usual or regular course or order”). “Compelling” means “tending to convince or convert by or as if by forcefulness of evidence.” Webster's Third New International Dictionary, at 463; see 3 Oxford English Dictionary, at 600 (“irresistible; demanding attention, respect”). We will focus on the latter requirement.

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