Need another word for Leniency? Use these synonyms of Leniency from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
clemency
mercy
lenity
mildness
gentleness
softness
indulgence
tolerance
forbearance
patience
understanding
compassion
pity
sympathy
kindness
generosity
charity
benevolence
humanity
indulgency
permissiveness
laxity
flexibility
ease
moderation
temperateness
calmness
serenity
tranquility
peacefulness
quietness
stillness
composure
equanimity
impartiality
justice
fairness
reasonableness
sensibility
sensibleness
consideration
thoughtfulness
delicacy
subtlety
tact
discretion
prudence
caution
carefulness
attentiveness
watchfulness
vigilance
attentivity
Meaning of Leniency
The primary meaning of the word "Leniency" refers to the quality of being more merciful or tolerant than expected.
Definitions
- The fact or quality of being lenient, mild, or moderate in character or effect
- A disposition to forgive or show mercy, especially to someone who has done something wrong
- A lack of severity or strictness, especially in the application of rules or laws
Etymology of Leniency
The word "Leniency" originates from the Latin "lenientia", which is derived from "lenis", meaning mild or gentle
The term has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe a disposition towards mercy or forgiveness
Example Uses
- The judge showed leniency when sentencing the young offender, taking into account their age and lack of prior convictions
- The government's leniency towards the protesters was seen as a sign of weakness by some, but as a necessary step towards reconciliation by others
- The teacher's leniency towards her students made her a popular figure in the school, but also raised concerns about her ability to maintain discipline
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
severity
harshness
strictness
sternness
austerity
rigor
stringency
toughness
hardness
cruelty
brutality
mercilessness
pitilessness
unforgivingness
intolerance
impatience
callousness
heartlessness
ruthlessness
fierceness
ferocity
savagery
barbarity
inhumanity
mercilessness
unkindness
unsympatheticness