Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

leniency

noun
/ˈliːniənsi/
Definition
the quality of being more forgiving or tolerant than expected.
Examples
  • The judge showed leniency towards the first-time offender.
  • Despite his mistakes, her leniency helped him learn and improve.
  • Teachers often exercise leniency when students are making a genuine effort to learn.
Meaning
Leniency refers to a degree of mercy or softness in enforcing rules or standards. It implies a willingness to relax strictness or severity.
Synonyms
  • mercy
  • tolerance
  • forbearance
  • indulgence
  • clemency