Lenient Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
lenient
[หliหniษnt ]
Definitions
in discipline
Showing tolerance or gentleness; not strict or harsh.
Synonyms
forgiving, indulgent, merciful, permissive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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lenient |
Used when someone is not strict in punishing or disciplining others.
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merciful |
Used when someone shows compassion or leniency, especially in a situation where they have the power to punish.
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forgiving |
Used when someone is willing to forgive others for their mistakes or wrongdoings.
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indulgent |
Used when someone allows others to have or do things that they enjoy, often excessively.
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permissive |
Used when someone allows freedom of behavior, often when it is considered inappropriate or excessive. This term usually has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She was lenient with her students' mistakes.
- The judge was lenient in his sentencing for first-time offenders.
in rules
Allowing a lot of freedom and not punishing small mistakes.
Synonyms
accommodating, easygoing, flexible, tolerant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
lenient |
This word is best used when describing someone who is not strict and tends to forgive mistakes or go easy on rules. It has a slightly formal tone.
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tolerant |
This word is used to describe someone who is open-minded and accepts different opinions, behaviors, or beliefs. It is often used in discussions about social issues.
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easygoing |
Best used for someone who is relaxed and not easily upset or worried. Often used in casual conversations.
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flexible |
Use this word to describe someone who can adapt to different situations or schedules. It can apply to both physical and metaphorical flexibility.
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accommodating |
This word describes someone who is willing to help others or make adjustments to meet their needs. It is often used in customer service or hospitality contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The company has a lenient dress code policy.
- The school has a lenient attendance policy.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In behavioral psychology, leniency can influence motivation; relaxed rules may lead to increased creativity in learning environments.
- Research suggests that lenient attitudes in caregivers can foster a sense of security in children, enhancing their emotional development.
- Conversely, excessive leniency can result in children struggling to cope with expectations later in life.
Legal Context
- In judicial terms, a lenient judge may give lighter sentences, reflecting a belief in rehabilitation over punishment.
- The concept of leniency often arises in plea deals, where defendants may receive reduced sentences in exchange for cooperation.
- Legal leniency has been debated, especially in cases involving repeat offenders, highlighting the balance between fairness and accountability.
Education
- Teachers who adopt a lenient grading system may focus more on encouraging learning rather than strictly adhering to grading criteria.
- Lenient policies in schools can promote a more positive learning atmosphere, but they must be balanced with accountability.
- The term 'lenient' is often used to describe educational philosophies that emphasize student well-being over standard benchmarks.
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV shows, lenient parents often are portrayed as 'cool' but might face challenges when their children push boundaries.
- Characters in literature might take a lenient approach to rules, showcasing themes of rebellion versus authority.
- Lenience in storytelling can create tension between characters who are strict versus those who advocate for freedom and understanding.
Origin of 'lenient'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'lenient' comes from the Latin word 'leniare', meaning 'to soften'.
- It entered the English language in the early 19th century and has since been used to describe a mild approach to rules.
- Similar words like 'lenity' and 'lenience' also derive from the same root, emphasizing gentleness.
The word 'lenient' originated from the Latin word 'lenient-' (present participle of lenire), which means 'to soften' or 'to alleviate'. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe someone or something that shows mercy or tolerance.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #17,929, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 17926 arbitral
- 17927 hinterland
- 17928 poise
- 17929 lenient
- 17930 hurtful
- 17931 eradicated
- 17932 negate
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