appealing for leniency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appealing for leniency" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is requesting a more merciful or forgiving treatment, often in a legal or disciplinary context. Example: "The defendant's lawyer is appealing for leniency during the sentencing phase of the trial."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Other international musicians including Sting and the Red Hot Chili Peppers have appealed for leniency.

BBC

Police are appealing for witnesses.

BBC

It is appealing for hedge funds.

The New York Times

West Yorkshire Police are appealing for witnesses.

Independent

I'm appealing for unity".

BBC

We are appealing for help.

BBC

Police are appealing for information.

BBC

"Remy's appealing for Lee Grant's handball.

BBC

The Welsh Blood Service is also appealing for donors.

BBC

This approach is appealing for several reasons.

SEP

Our method is appealing for several reasons.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "appealing for leniency", ensure the context clearly outlines the reasons why a more forgiving approach is justified. This might include demonstrating remorse, highlighting mitigating circumstances, or presenting evidence of rehabilitation.

Common error

Avoid using "appealing for leniency" in casual conversation. It's a phrase best suited for formal situations, especially legal or disciplinary proceedings. Simpler phrases like "asking for understanding" or "hoping for forgiveness" are more appropriate in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appealing for leniency" functions as a verb phrase followed by a prepositional phrase, indicating the act of requesting a more merciful or forgiving treatment. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "appealing for leniency" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies a formal request for mercy or reduced punishment, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in news, legal, and formal business contexts, it conveys a persuasive intent aimed at influencing a decision-maker towards compassion. While absent in very informal settings, substituting this phrase with options like "requesting clemency" or "seeking mercy" might be appropriate depending on context. It’s important to consider the formality of the situation and ensure the phrase is used where a degree of formality is expected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making a plea for leniency

Rephrases the original query as a noun phrase.

requesting clemency

More formal alternative, emphasizing a formal request for mercy or pardon.

petitioning for leniency

Implies a formal or written request for leniency.

seeking mercy

Directly asks for compassion or forgiveness, potentially in a religious context.

begging for mercy

Emphasizes desperation and humility in the request.

entreating for mercy

A somewhat archaic and highly formal way of asking for mercy.

pleading for forgiveness

Highlights the acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a desire to be absolved.

asking for a lighter sentence

Specifically refers to requesting a reduced punishment in a legal setting.

seeking mitigation

Formal and legalistic, referring to finding factors that lessen culpability.

imploring for compassion

Emphasizes the emotional plea for understanding and kindness.

FAQs

How is "appealing for leniency" typically used?

The phrase "appealing for leniency" is typically used in formal settings, such as legal or disciplinary contexts, where someone is requesting a more merciful or forgiving treatment. For example, a defendant might "appeal for leniency" during sentencing.

What's a more casual way to say "appealing for leniency"?

In less formal situations, you could use phrases like "asking for forgiveness", "hoping for understanding", or simply "asking for mercy".

When is it appropriate to use "appealing for leniency"?

It's appropriate to use "appealing for leniency" when there is a formal process where someone is being judged or disciplined, and they are hoping for a more lenient outcome. This is common in courtrooms, disciplinary hearings, and similar settings.

What's the difference between "appealing for leniency" and "demanding leniency"?

"Appealing for leniency" suggests a request made with humility and respect, whereas "demanding leniency" implies a forceful insistence, often without acknowledging any wrongdoing. The former is more likely to be received positively than the latter.