leniency — English Dictionary

Noun

1. The quality of mercy or forgiveness, especially in the assignment of punishment as in a court case.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   The convicted felon asked for leniency, but because the crime was so heinous the judge refused and gave the maximum sentence.

2. An act of being lenient.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

Noun

1. mercifulness as a consequence of being lenient or tolerant

   Synonyms

   leniencemildnesslenity

   Broader terms

   mercifulnessmercy

2. a disposition to yield to the wishes of someone

   Synonyms

   indulgencelenience

   Broader terms

   permissivenesstolerance

   Examples

   too much indulgence spoils a child

3. lightening a penalty or excusing from a chore by judges or parents or teachers

   Synonyms

   lenience

   Broader terms

   tolerance