mild sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mild sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sentence that is not harsh or severe, often in the context of punishment or criticism. Example: "The judge issued a mild sentence, considering the defendant's cooperation and remorse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Magazine

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

The New York Times

The mild sentence drew complaints from secularist groups but it is another sign of the building momentum for enforcing the rule of law against self-appointed religious police.The same day the parliament passed, after years of debate, a controversial "porn bill" sought by Islamists but backed by some secular parties in an attempt to look pious.

The Economist

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The defense also seemed surprised by the relatively mild sentences.

The New York Times

The helmsman, Jacob Rusli Bin, is one of five Costa employees granted plea bargains in return for mild sentences in a separate proceeding.

Independent

As the mild sentences rolled by, I found myself wishing the Unabomber or the boys who carried out the Columbine massacre would take the stage for a chapter or two.

The New York Times - Books

Here, the C.O. went on, it was mild sentences that were the order of the day, and, what was more, they became even milder when they were up for review; safe and professionally idealistic back home, he said, the legal experts of military appellate bodies invariably looked with suspicion upon the administration of justice in war zones.

The New Yorker

Vatican criminal law, according to Papanti Pelletier, envisions "very mild" sentences: "In Italy, prison sentences are much harsher," he said.

Huffington Post

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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a sentence, consider the specific aspect you want to highlight. Use "mild sentence" when you want to emphasize the lack of severity, but consider alternatives like "lenient sentence" or "reduced sentence" if those nuances are more relevant.

Common error

While "mild sentence" is understandable, it might lack the precision required in formal legal documents. Opt for more specific terms such as "deferred sentence" or "suspended sentence" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mild sentence" functions as a noun phrase, where "mild" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "sentence". It describes the nature of a legal or disciplinary consequence. Ludwig shows that it's used to denote a sentence that is not severe.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mild sentence" is a phrase used to describe a punishment that is not severe. Ludwig shows it’s grammatically correct and primarily found in news and media contexts. While understandable, it may be less precise than specific legal terms in formal settings. When using this phrase, consider the context and the specific nuance you want to convey. For greater impact and precision, consider alternatives like "lenient sentence" or "reduced sentence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lenient sentence

Replaces 'mild' with 'lenient', emphasizing the merciful nature of the sentence.

light sentence

Substitutes 'mild' with 'light', suggesting a sentence that imposes minimal burden.

reduced sentence

Focuses on the aspect of the sentence being lessened from an original, harsher form.

moderate sentence

Emphasizes the sentence is neither too harsh nor too lenient, but balanced.

compassionate sentence

Highlights the sympathetic considerations taken into account when issuing the sentence.

merciful sentence

Similar to 'lenient' but stresses the act of showing mercy in the sentencing.

easy sentence

Indicates the sentence is not difficult to fulfill or endure.

favorable sentence

Highlights the beneficial aspect of the sentence to the recipient.

non-severe sentence

A more formal way of saying the sentence is not harsh.

relaxed sentence

Implies the sentence is delivered in a less strict or forceful manner.

FAQs

What does "mild sentence" mean?

A "mild sentence" refers to a punishment or consequence that is not harsh or severe, typically given for a crime or offense.

What can I say instead of "mild sentence"?

You can use alternatives like "lenient sentence", "light sentence", or "reduced sentence" depending on the context.

Is "mild sentence" a legal term?

While "mild sentence" is understandable, it is not a specific legal term. Legal contexts may use more precise terms like "suspended sentence" or "probation" to define specific legal outcomes.

How does a "mild sentence" differ from a "harsh sentence"?

A "mild sentence" indicates a less severe penalty, whereas a "harsh sentence" implies a more severe punishment, often involving significant jail time or other serious consequences.