lenient

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But recently, prosecutors dropped charges against a third of the officers and are offering lenient plea deals to several others.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

But as of now, there are enough tailwinds in place—including more lenient tax policy, higher vehicle demand, and consistent retiree spending—to keep expenditures steady during the first quarter.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

Instead, Lee says that students are more interested in addressing course engagement and rigor—particularly in courses called “gems,” which is Harvard slang for classes that offer a light workload and lenient grading.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

"Slap them with a small fine if you must but free the prisoners who clearly meant no harm. Be fair and lenient with people who genuinely support the UAE. Let it be over," she wrote.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

In retrospect, it is clear that one of the major factors pushing this trend was a more lenient justice system.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt