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leniently

adverb

Definition of lenientlynext
as in lightly

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of leniently However, critics have complained to the county board of supervisors that the sheriff was treated more leniently than the average citizen would have been. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 9 June 2026 The document also reopened the controversy around Jannik Sinner’s doping ban, claiming that he was treated leniently by the ITIA. — Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for leniently
  1. lightly
  2. gently
Adverb
  • Season two goes a little differently than season one, because the music exec in charge of casting the show (Ashley Padilla) is being lightly blackmailed by two … unique candidates (Jane Wickline and new cast member Grace Reiter).
    — Bethy Squires, Vulture, 27 Sep. 2026
  • But, when Dovner questioned him lightly about the details, the man’s infectious laughter made Gleb even more convinced that such trifles were hardly worth mentioning at all.
    — Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, New Yorker, 27 Sep. 2026
Definition of lightly
Adverb
  • If freezing after browning, let the meatballs cool completely before freezing the same way, then thaw and rewarm gently in a low oven before adding them to the pan.
    — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Sep. 2026
  • These lightweight compression socks gently squeeze the feet and calves in order to improve blood circulation, reduce swelling, and prevent pain.
    — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 2026
Definition of gently

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lenient
leniently
Leninism
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Cite this Entry

“Leniently.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/leniently. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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