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

But the prosecutor’s request for leniency doesn’t stop there. —Mike Fox, Oc Register, 12 May 2025

The move comes amid CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s ongoing charm offensive to win over the Trump Administration, looking for leniency as Meta fights a federal antitrust lawsuit aiming to break it up. —Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

Santos asked for leniency ahead of sentencing The U.S. Department of Justice wanted Santos to serve 87 months in prison, while his lawyers sought just 24 months. —Jennifer McLogan, CBS News, 25 Apr. 2025

The Trump administration’s announcement marks an end to a period of leniency that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. —Annie Ma, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 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