leniency

noun

le·​nien·​cy ˈlē-nē-ən(t)-sē 

-nyən(t)-sē

plural leniencies

1

: the quality or state of being lenient

the leniency of the punishment

2

: a lenient disposition or practice

The prisoner asked the judge for leniency.

Synonyms of leniency

• mercy
• mercifulness

Choose the Right Synonym for leniency

mercy, charity, clemency, grace, leniency mean a disposition to show kindness or compassion.

mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others.

show a little charity for the less fortunate

clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions.

by the grace of God

leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

Examples of leniency in a Sentence

the defense requested leniency in light of their client's lack of a prior criminal record

Recent Examples on the Web

Kunis and Kutcher both wrote letters of support to the judge asking for leniency for Masterson. —Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 30 Mar. 2026

The 32-year-old Opa-locka native went so far as to write a letter to Judge Arun Subramanian requesting leniency before her former beau’s sentencing. —Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2026

So the real question is, are these tax leniency laws actually helping any businesses run or what problem? —Joel Feder, The Drive, 19 Mar. 2026

Pike’s lawyers and family members pleaded for leniency, citing Pike’s significant health problems and important role in his family. —Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for leniency

• conveniency

Kids Definition

leniency

noun

le·​nien·​cy ˈlē-nē-ən-sē 

-nyən-sē

: the quality or state of being lenient