lenient
Inclined toward mercy
Lenient describes a mild or merciful approach to rules, punishment, or judgment—one that is less strict or severe than might be expected.
A lenient judge gives lighter sentences; lenient parents let things slide that stricter ones wouldn't.
The word often carries a hint of criticism, suggesting that someone is perhaps too forgiving or permissive: Critics say the new policy is too lenient on repeat offenders.
Disposed toward forgiveness
- clementMild, showing leniency
- compassionateShowing concern for sufferers
- forbearingShowing restraint under provocation
- pardoningForgiving an offense officially
absolving · excusing · condoning · sparing · reprieving · exonerating · acquitting · magnanimous
Insufficiently firm or rigorous
- indulgentToo willing to yield
- tolerantAccepting of differences
- easygoingRelaxed in temperament
- liberalOpen to reform
relaxed · loose · undemanding · nonjudgmental · accommodating · flexible · soft · pampering
merciful
Disposed toward forgiveness
- clementMild, showing leniency
- compassionateShowing concern for sufferers
- forbearingShowing restraint under provocation
pardoning · absolving · excusing · condoning · sparing · reprieving · exonerating · acquitting · magnanimous · gracious
lax
Insufficiently firm or rigorous
liberal · relaxed · loose · undemanding · nonjudgmental · accommodating · flexible · soft · pampering · spoiling
moderate
Lessen intensity or preside
softened · restrained · measured · subdued · tempered · mitigated · relaxed · easy · cushioned · diluted
- gentlegentle, mild, soft, tender, meek
- soft parentingpermissive, doting, pampering, coddling, spoiling
- parenting stylesauthoritative, authoritarian, permissive, neglectful, attachment parenting
- cautioncareful, be careful, cautious, caution, watch out
- flexibilitystretch, elastic, bendy, stretchy, bendable
- relaxedcalm, serene, peaceful, mellow, easygoing