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
  • Roast the tomatillo, onion and garlic for 20 minutes or until soft and lightly caramelized.
    — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 11 Oct. 2026
  • Cook, stirring occasionally but not breaking meat apart, until beef is lightly browned but not crisp, 6–8 minutes.
    — Andy Baraghani, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of lightly
Adverb
  • This fall, Lady Gaga has gently set aside pop superstardom for the busy life of a new mom; the singer and her fiancé, Michael Polansky, welcomed a child together—a daughter named Rose Bean Polansky—in September.
    — Christian Allaire, Vogue, 11 Oct. 2026
  • The play’s tension, gently but poignantly unspooled, develops from the fact that while Ryan has pursued a career onstage, Charlie never did.
    — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2026
Definition of gently

Browse Nearby Words

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 15 Oct. 2026.

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