a milder sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a milder sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing legal matters, particularly in the context of sentencing for a crime, where a less severe punishment is being considered. Example: "The judge decided to impose a milder sentence due to the defendant's cooperation with the investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

A milder sentence is expected for her principal accomplice, Zhang Xiaojun, because Ms. Gu has reportedly confessed to buying and administering the poison that killed Mr. Heywood.

The New York Times

Obama goes on to admit that by hanging around with these people, he was becoming "more like" them, and Frank — refusing to plea-bargain this stunning confession for a milder sentence — agrees, then piles on.

The New York Times - Books

Even parents who might have come up with a milder sentence could at least express their support for those who make them look like reasonable creatures, comparatively, to their own children.

The New York Times

Józef received a milder sentence: five years' exile in Siberia, first at Kirensk on the Lena River, then at Tunka.

Wikipedia

Nonetheless, he asked the district attorney's office to plea bargain for a milder sentence, even though the trial was over and the time for such bargaining had long passed.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Originally facing up to 35 years in prison, he will now receive a much milder sentence, perhaps including no time in jail.The government's aggressive pursuit of Mr Drake confounded advocates of open government.

The Economist

He was also tried, and a relatively mild sentence — a fine — was handed down from the very top.

The New York Times

Harich himself drew a remarkably mild sentence for a crime punishable by death.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's time to better protect the American people and our values by bringing swift and sure justice to terrorists through our courts and our Uniform Code of Military Justice," Obama said in August, after the completion of the first trial at Guantanamo Bay, which resulted in a relatively mild sentence for Osama bin Laden's driver.

The Washington Post

The Jamaican-born coach was eventually given a relatively mild sentence, largely because the jury was unimpressed with the prosecution's "true devil" of a witness.

BBC

The FARC's negotiators have yet to accept the principle that such crimes must be punished, even with milder sentences than would normally be imposed.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When arguing for "a milder sentence", clearly articulate the mitigating circumstances and present them logically to the court. This could include factors like the defendant's prior good behavior, remorse, or cooperation with authorities.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the positive effects of "a milder sentence" on the victim or community. While advocating for leniency, ensure you acknowledge the harm caused by the crime and the need for accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a milder sentence" functions as a noun phrase that acts as the object of a verb or preposition, typically within a legal context. It describes the type of punishment being considered or imposed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a milder sentence" is a grammatically correct and acceptable phrase used to describe a less severe punishment within a legal context. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage in written English. While "a milder sentence" is a common way to express leniency in legal punishments, alternative phrases like "a more lenient sentence" or "a lighter punishment" can offer subtle variations in meaning. The frequency of its occurrence is uncommon. When advocating for "a milder sentence", it's essential to present compelling mitigating factors while remaining mindful of the crime's impact on victims. Usage of this phrase is most prominent in news and media, reflecting its relevance in reporting on legal proceedings and criminal justice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A more lenient sentence

Focuses on the leniency aspect, replacing 'milder' with 'more lenient'.

A less harsh sentence

Replaces 'milder' with 'less harsh', focusing on the reduction of severity.

A lighter punishment

Substitutes 'sentence' with the broader term 'punishment', implying a less severe consequence.

A reduced penalty

Replaces 'sentence' with 'penalty', highlighting the decrease in the imposed consequence.

A less strict sentence

Replaces 'milder' with 'less strict', emphasizing the relaxation of rules or standards.

A more forgiving sentence

Emphasizes the aspect of forgiveness in the sentencing, suggesting a compassionate approach.

A more compassionate sentence

Highlights the compassionate aspect of the sentence, suggesting empathy towards the defendant.

A lenient judgment

Replaces 'sentence' with 'judgment', broadening the scope to the overall legal decision.

A mitigated sentence

Uses the term 'mitigated' to indicate a reduction in the severity of the sentence due to extenuating circumstances.

A softened sentence

Uses the term 'softened' to describe the diminishing of the severity of punishment.

FAQs

How is "a milder sentence" typically used in legal contexts?

The phrase "a milder sentence" is generally used to describe a less severe punishment given to a defendant, often due to mitigating circumstances such as cooperation with authorities, lack of prior criminal record, or expressions of remorse. It implies a degree of leniency in the sentencing process.

What are some alternatives to saying "a milder sentence"?

Alternatives to "a milder sentence" include phrases like "a more lenient sentence", "a lighter punishment", or "a reduced penalty". The choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When might a judge consider imposing "a milder sentence"?

A judge might consider imposing "a milder sentence" when presented with compelling mitigating factors, such as the defendant's young age, lack of criminal history, acceptance of responsibility for the crime, or significant contributions to the community. The judge's decision depends on the specifics of the case and the relevant laws.

Is there a risk of using the phrase "a milder sentence" in sensitive situations?

Yes, using the phrase "a milder sentence" could be perceived as insensitive in cases involving severe crimes or when the victim's family seeks justice. In such situations, it's important to balance the argument for leniency with acknowledgment of the harm caused and the need for accountability. Consider phrasing your argument carefully.