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

Rombough, who was described by Wenger’s former lawyer as the most violent of the three, took a plea deal and became a government witness with the hope of leniency. —Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 16 Sep. 2025

In the lead-up to Monday’s hearing – held three days before Martinez’s 68th birthday – defense lawyers filed motions arguing for leniency based partly on what a doctor said was a dangerous heart condition worsened by stress. —Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 15 Sep. 2025

Hawthorne’s family speaks Hawthorne’s mother, Vonda Hawthorne, and a family friend also spoke on his behalf, asking the judge to consider some leniency in his sentencing. —Charlotte Observer, 2 Sep. 2025

Timmons' family expressed dissatisfaction with the plea agreement and the judge criticized the leniency of the initial sentencing recommendation. —Drake Bentley, jsonline.com, 29 Aug. 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