leniently

Leniently is the adverb form of lenient, describing actions done with mercy, tolerance, or a lack of strictness.

When a judge sentences leniently, they impose a lighter punishment than might be expected.

The teacher graded leniently on the first assignment.

Parents who discipline leniently tend to give warnings rather than consequences.

The word often appears in contexts where someone has the power to punish but chooses restraint.