leniency
Leniency (noun) means Mercy or a light touch when it comes to punishing someone. Example: “The judge showed leniency because it was the defendant's first offence.”
How to Use Leniency
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishGoing easy on someone rather than punishing them fully.
Word Forms
leniencies plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The judge showed _____ because it was the defendant's first offence.
Etymology
From Latin lenis, "soft, gentle" — the same root behind "lenient."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for leniency
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “leniency” mean?
The word “leniency” means mercy or a light touch when it comes to punishing someone. In plain terms, going easy on someone rather than punishing them fully.
How do you pronounce “leniency”?
“Leniency” is pronounced LEE-nee-uhn-see (/ˈliːni.ən(t)si/ in IPA).
How do you use “leniency” in a sentence?
Here is “leniency” used in a sentence: “The judge showed leniency because it was the defendant's first offence.”
What part of speech is “leniency”?
“Leniency” is a noun.
Where does the word “leniency” come from?
The word “leniency” comes from Latin. From Latin lenis, "soft, gentle" — the same root behind "lenient.".