Lenient

/ˈliːniənt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Not strict or harsh; inclined to be merciful or tolerant.

The teacher was lenient with her grading policy, allowing students extra time to complete their assignments.

Permissive or tolerant in the application of rules or discipline.

The judge was lenient in sentencing, giving the defendant a chance for rehabilitation.

Characterized by a tendency to forgive or overlook faults.

Parents often become lenient when it comes to their children's mistakes, opting for conversation over punishment.

Mild or gentle in disposition or nature.

The lenient weather during the spring made it a perfect time for gardening.

From Latin 'lenientem', the present participle of 'lenire', meaning 'to soothe or soften'.

lenient hand

A style of handing out punishment that is not very strict.

lenient punishment

A penalty that is not harsh or severe.

leniency

The quality of being lenient; permissiveness.

leniently

In a manner that is lenient.

tolerance

The ability or willingness to tolerate the existence of opinions or behavior that one dislikes or disagrees with.

Easygoing about rules or expectations.

That coach is so lenient, he lets the team play however they want.