appeals for leniency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appeals for leniency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is requesting a more merciful or forgiving treatment, often in legal or disciplinary situations. Example: "The defendant's lawyer made several appeals for leniency during the sentencing hearing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But Aslam's unexpectedly florid writing, as in the following passages, often makes reading this novel painful: "The grandson of a watchsmith, he appeals for leniency from the god who decrees the point of no return.

The New York Times - Books

Despite his desperate appeals for leniency, Cohen was sentenced to three years in December after pleading guilty to multiple counts of financial fraud and one count of lying to Congress.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Though Mr. Torricelli in the end voted against the nomination, many of his colleagues interpreted his actions as an appeal for leniency from the Bush administration.

The New York Times

B1 Behind Rowland's Plea Lawyers involved in the case of John G. Rowland, the former Connecticut governor, say that last month's plea agreement shrewdly positioned him to appeal for leniency at his sentencing on March 11 and halted a criminal investigation.

The New York Times

He turned decisively against his old friend Bashar al-Assad when the latter rejected Erdoğan's appeal for leniency towards the Syrians who began protesting against the dictator in the spring of 2011.

The Guardian

At his sentencing yesterday in Onondaga County Court in Syracuse, Mr. Jamelske wept as he appealed for leniency, saying, "I'm sorry for what I did and how it affected everyone," according to The Associated Press.

The New York Times

Mehlman's appeal for leniency on the charge that he is a cynical hypocrite who ran (and got rich from) anti-gay campaigns is based, in large part, on his current support for same-sex marriage.

The New Yorker

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

BBC

In letters to the court, members of Jackson's family appealed for leniency, with his father saying: "Jesse Jr is an example as a teacher and counsellor who will be better served under supervision and probation". Jackson resigned from the House of Representatives last November, months after his diagnosis with bipolar disorder.

BBC

Maxim Gorky and others appealed for leniency, but by the time Lenin agreed to several pardons, the condemned had been shot.

Wikipedia

At his trial last December Keach told a judge he had been addicted to cocaine since January of last year, using the drug "as a means of trying to alleviate exhaustion". The judge turned down his appeal for leniency and sentenced Keach to nine months in prison.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "appeals for leniency", consider the context and adjust the formality of your language to match. It is appropriate for legal and formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "appeals for leniency" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "asking for a break" or "hoping for understanding" are more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appeals for leniency" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the act of requesting a more lenient or merciful judgment. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in contexts related to legal or disciplinary situations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appeals for leniency" is a phrase used to describe a formal request for a more lenient judgment. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts and is considered relatively rare. While grammatically sound, consider simpler alternatives like "requests for mercy" in less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requests for mercy

Focuses on the compassionate aspect of the request.

pleas for compassion

Emphasizes the emotional appeal for understanding and kindness.

implores for mercy

Stresses a desperate request for compassionate treatment.

asks for clemency

A more formal and legalistic way of requesting leniency.

appeals for clemency

A more formal and legalistic way of requesting leniency.

seeks mitigation of sentence

Specifically refers to reducing the severity of a legal sentence.

petitions for leniency

Highlights a formal request for reduced punishment.

argues for a lighter sentence

Highlights the act of presenting reasons for a reduced penalty.

requests for a reprieve

Implies a temporary suspension or postponement of punishment.

begs for a break

An informal expression indicating a request to be treated less harshly.

FAQs

How can I use "appeals for leniency" in a sentence?

You can use "appeals for leniency" to describe situations where someone is formally requesting a more merciful or forgiving judgment. For example, "The lawyer made several "appeals for leniency" during the sentencing hearing".

What are some alternatives to "appeals for leniency"?

Alternatives include "requests for mercy", "pleas for compassion", or "asks for clemency", depending on the desired tone and context.

Is "appeals for leniency" appropriate for informal settings?

No, "appeals for leniency" is generally too formal for informal settings. Simpler phrases like "asking for a break" or "hoping for understanding" are better suited for casual conversations.

What is the difference between "appeals for leniency" and "demands for leniency"?

"Appeals for leniency" suggests a respectful request, while "demands for leniency" implies a forceful or insistent request, which might be perceived negatively. The choice depends on the context and the desired tone.