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

• charity
• clemency
• forbearance
• lenience
• lenity
• mercifulness
• mercy
• quarter

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

Sibella’s attorneys, Jeffrey Rutherford in Los Angeles and John Spilotro in Las Vegas, were seeking leniency and a sentence of probation from U.S. District Judge Dolly Gee in Los Angeles. —Christopher Weber, Fortune, 8 May 2024

Boylan’s lawyers, and his supporters, pleaded for leniency before the sentencing. —Christopher Goffard, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

leniency

noun

le·​nien·​cy ˈlē-nē-ən-sē 

-nyən-sē

: the quality or state of being lenient