# leniency

/ˈɫinjənsi/ (US) · /lˈiːnɪənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/leniency
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

the quality of being kind and not punishing someone too much. You use this when someone makes a mistake but gets a lighter punishment than they might have expected.

For teachers: the quality of being merciful or forgiving in the administration of punishment. Often used in legal or disciplinary contexts to describe a lenient sentence or action.

## Examples

- The judge showed leniency by giving him a small fine.
- The school board decided to show leniency toward the student because it was his first offense.
- While the statute mandates a minimum sentence, the court may exercise leniency if the defendant demonstrates genuine remorse and a commitment to rehabilitation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.