noun
leeway
LEE-way
Leeway (noun) means Extra freedom or flexibility to act without strict limits. Example: “The new manager gave the team more leeway to set their own deadlines.”
noun
1
Extra freedom or flexibility to act without strict limits.
"The new manager gave the team more leeway to set their own deadlines."
"We built some leeway into the budget in case costs rose."
How to use leeway
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRoom to manoeuvre — extra freedom, time, or margin for error.
Common pairings
give someone leeway
allow some leeway
little leeway
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Word forms
- Plural
- leeways
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The new manager gave the team more _____ to set their own deadlines.
Etymology
Originally a sailing term: from lee ("the sheltered side away from the wind") plus way, describing how far a ship drifted sideways off course.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for leeway
See all rhymes for leeway →Frequently asked questions
What does “leeway” mean?
The word “leeway” means extra freedom or flexibility to act without strict limits. In plain terms, room to manoeuvre — extra freedom, time, or margin for error.
How do you pronounce “leeway”?
“Leeway” is pronounced LEE-way ([ˈliːˌweɪ] in IPA).
How do you use “leeway” in a sentence?
Here is “leeway” used in a sentence: “The new manager gave the team more leeway to set their own deadlines.”
What part of speech is “leeway”?
“Leeway” is a noun.
