# lenient

/ˈɫiniənt/ (US) · /lˈiːnɪənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lenient
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

not as strict as expected. You use this to describe a person in power, like a teacher or judge, who chooses not to punish someone severely.

For teachers: inclined to be merciful or indulgent; not strict in the application of discipline or punishment.

## Examples

- The teacher was lenient and gave him another chance.
- The judge was surprisingly lenient with the first-time offender, sentencing him to community service instead of jail time.
- While the school handbook mandates suspension for such an infraction, the principal decided to be lenient due to the student's previously spotless disciplinary record and genuine remorse.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'become', or 'seem'.

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