LENIENCY Synonyms: 108 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'leniency' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of leniency are charity , clemency , grace , and mercy . While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," leniency implies lack of severity in punishing. // criticized the courts for excessive leniency

Q: When is 'charity' a more appropriate choice than 'leniency'?

The synonyms charity and leniency are sometimes interchangeable, but charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others. // show a little charity for the less fortunate

Q: When can 'clemency' be used instead of 'leniency'?

While in some cases nearly identical to leniency , clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing. // the judge refused to show clemency

Q: In what contexts can 'grace' take the place of 'leniency'?

While the synonyms grace and leniency are close in meaning, grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions. // by the grace of God

Q: When might 'mercy' be a better fit than 'leniency'?

The meanings of mercy and leniency largely overlap; however, mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it. // threw himself on the mercy of the court

leniency

noun

ˈlē-nē-ən(t)-sē

Definition of leniency next

as in mercy

kind, gentle, or compassionate treatment especially towards someone who is undeserving of it the defense requested leniency in light of their client's lack of a prior criminal record

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How does the noun leniency differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of leniency are charity, clemency, grace, and mercy. While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

When is charity a more appropriate choice than leniency?

The synonyms charity and leniency are sometimes interchangeable, but charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others.

show a little charity for the less fortunate

When can clemency be used instead of leniency?

While in some cases nearly identical to leniency, clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

In what contexts can grace take the place of leniency?

While the synonyms grace and leniency are close in meaning, grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions.

by the grace of God

When might mercy be a better fit than leniency?

The meanings of mercy and leniency largely overlap; however, mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

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 leniency The program sought to establish a series of allowances — from leniency on masonry materials to flexibility with building height and parking limits — for developers willing to meet certain affordability criteria. —

Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 27 Mar. 2025 While judges may show leniency toward defendants with serious health issues, the BOP rarely, if ever, admits to being incapable of providing care. —

Walter Pavlo, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 Matthew Ashby wanted something unusual for the man who left his brother bleeding in the street: leniency. —

Ariane Lange, Sacramento Bee, 11 Mar. 2025 He's outgrown being shown any leniency or 'given a second chance' with such arrogant, boorish behavior. —

Erin Clack, People.com, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for leniency

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leniency

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“Leniency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/leniency. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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Last Updated: 15 Apr 2025 - Updated example sentences

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