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

At her father's sentencing in July 2025, Rhianna Stephens made an emotional appeal for leniency. —Sarah Prior, CBS News, 25 Jan. 2026

Rigetti has a track record of delays, so the market may not afford them much leniency if things go off course. —Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026

The new Under Armour agreement eliminates the leniency that had been afforded to women’s basketball in the event of NCAA sanctions. —Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 22 Jan. 2026

Prosecutors also agreed to recommend some leniency but Roberts’ sentence is ultimately up to the judge. —Hannah Fingerhut, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 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