leniency

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈliːniənsi/

Definition

A quality of being merciful, tolerant, or less severe than expected when punishing or judging someone.

Examples

• The teacher showed leniency toward students who submitted their assignments one day late.

• Public opinion is divided on whether the government should show leniency to tax evaders.

• He hoped for leniency from his boss after admitting he had made a significant error in the report.

Synonyms of leniency

Words with a similar meaning to leniency:

• mercy
• tolerance
• clemency
• forbearance

Antonyms of leniency

Words with the opposite meaning to leniency:

• severity
• rigor

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