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

• 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

Combs’ family, friends, former employees and business associates from Bad Boy Entertainment and Combs Enterprises submitted more than 70 letters to ask Judge Subramanian for leniency on his behalf. —Kara Scannell, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 2025

In a final speech before sentencing, Combs made a plea for leniency. —Jennifer Peltz, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025

On the eve of sentencing, Combs submitted a personal letter to the judge asking for leniency, referencing his seven children and elderly mother. —Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025

While Combs' defense team has asked for leniency, requesting a sentence of 14 months for the two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution for which he was convicted, prosecutors have urged a sentence of 11 years. —Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 3 Oct. 2025

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