The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

lenience

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Dictionary definition of lenience

The quality of showing mercy or tolerance towards someone who has committed a mistake or wrongdoing.
"The lenience of the judge resulted in a lighter sentence for the first-time offender."

Detailed meaning of lenience

In other words, lenience is a tendency to be forgiving and understanding rather than strict or harsh. Lenience can be demonstrated in various contexts, such as in legal matters, where a judge may show lenience by giving a lighter sentence to a defendant, or in parenting, where a parent may show lenience towards their child's minor transgressions. While lenience can sometimes be perceived as a weakness or lack of discipline, it can also be an important aspect of promoting compassion, empathy, and understanding in human relationships.

Example sentences containing lenience

1. In court, he begged for lenience, eyes wet with regret and shame.
2. Her lenience towards students earned respect and adoration.
3. Fearing punishment, the child sought his mother's lenience.
4. The king's lenience was known throughout the lands far and wide.
5. Amidst fury, the general chose lenience, sparing the soldier.
6. With lenience, the teacher turned a stern eye to mischief.

History and etymology of lenience

The noun 'lenience' derives from the Latin word 'lenientia,' which is related to 'lenis,' meaning 'gentle' or 'soft.' 'Lenience' embodies the quality of showing mercy or tolerance towards someone who has committed a mistake or wrongdoing. It conveys the idea of a gentle and compassionate approach to addressing human errors or transgressions, emphasizing understanding and forgiveness over harsh judgment or punishment. 'Lenience' represents a fundamental aspect of justice and morality, reflecting the belief in the power of compassion and clemency in promoting personal growth, reconciliation, and the restoration of harmony in relationships and society.

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Further usage examples of lenience

1. Lenience in judgement often reveals a judge's true wisdom.
2. His crime was grave, yet the village chose lenience.
3. Amidst strict rules, her lenience was a breath of fresh air.
4. In the face of error, he practiced lenience, not scorn.
5. The elder's lenience towards youth was both wise and kind.
6. The teacher's lenience towards late assignments was appreciated by the students.
7. Her lenience as a manager allowed for a flexible work environment.
8. The lenience of the traffic cop led to warnings instead of fines for minor violations.
9. The company's policy showed lenience towards employees' personal time off.
10. The coach's lenience during practice fostered a positive atmosphere among the players.
11. The lenience of the restaurant owner allowed customers to customize their orders.
12. Some parents believe in strict discipline, while others prefer lenience.
13. The lenience of the referee was criticized by both teams for inconsistent calls.
14. Lenience in grading helped struggling students improve their academic performance.
15. The manager's lenience with dress code allowed employees to express their style.
16. The board's lenience in budget approvals led to overspending.
17. The lenience of the customer service department ensured a high level of customer satisfaction.
18. Lenience in the hiring process led to a diverse and inclusive workforce.
19. The lenience of the hotel allowed guests to check out later without extra charges.
20. The lenience of the local government supported small businesses during tough times.
21. The teacher's lenience towards noise levels in the classroom encouraged collaboration.
22. The lenience of the prison warden allowed inmates to engage in rehabilitative programs.
23. Some argue that lenience in disciplinary matters can lead to a lack of accountability.
24. The lenience of the principal in enforcing school rules resulted in a relaxed environment.