lenient

What does “lenient” mean?

adjective.(of punishment or a person in authority) permissive, merciful, or tolerant.

SAT Usage

the term is often found in passages discussing education, law, or authority figures, highlighting themes of justice and discipline. It implies a degree of flexibility or compassion in decision-making, suggesting a contrast to strict or harsh approaches, and it differs from words like "indulgent," which can connote excessive permissiveness rather than a balanced approach.

Common Confusions

Lenient implies a balanced approach to mercy or tolerance, while indulgent usually suggests an excessive or unrestrained level of permissiveness.

Example Sentences

• The standard is fairly lenient, so use your discretion.

• The judge decided to be lenient in his sentencing, considering the defendant's difficult upbringing and lack of prior offenses.