lenient — not as strict as expected when punishing someone or when demanding exact conformity to rules
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: not as strict as expected when punishing someone or when demanding exact conformity to rules
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈliːniənt/
Example Sentences
- The judge was surprisingly lenient and gave him community service instead of jail time.
- My mom is very lenient about bedtime when my friends sleep over.
- The boss was lenient with dress code during the heatwave - even flip-flops were allowed!
lenient
ADJECTIVE[/ˈliːniənt/]
not as strict as expected when punishing someone or when demanding exact conformity to rules

The lenient teacher lets the late student slip in without a word.

Lee kneels to show mercy - lenient to all!

Being lenient is convenient, making students obedient!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'leniens', the present participle of 'lenire' meaning 'to soften' or 'to make mild', derived from 'lenis' meaning 'soft' or 'mild'.
Breakdown
len- (soft, mild, from Latin lenis) + -ient (quality of being, from Latin -iens) = lenient (showing softness or mildness in judgment)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The judge was surprisingly lenient and gave him community service instead of jail time.”
“My mom is very lenient about bedtime when my friends sleep over.”
“The boss was lenient with dress code during the heatwave - even flip-flops were allowed!”
“The university has a lenient policy for late assignments if you have a valid excuse.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.