particularly lenient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "particularly lenient" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or policy that is especially forgiving or tolerant in nature. Example: "The judge was particularly lenient in sentencing, considering the defendant's circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Britain looks particularly lenient.

The Economist

The prosecution has not said whether it would appeal the particularly lenient rules for trial attendance for Mr. Kenyatta.

The New York Times

"There is no evidence that criminal activity is more heinous in Alabama than in other states or that Alabama juries are particularly lenient".

The New York Times

Even if Preska had been sympathetic to Hammond or to his cause, it would have been difficult for her to hand down a particularly lenient sentence.

The New Yorker

A "league table culture" had led to a surge in the number of firsts awarded, he warned, and overseas students – crucial because of the fee income they provide – were benefiting from particularly lenient treatment.

The Guardian

This research has exploited elements of randomness in the assignment of judges responsible for the screening process, implying that some applications are accepted or rejected because the applicants by chance were assigned particularly lenient or strict judges.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Although the government argues that money for HS2 will be found on top of everything else, the Treasury may prove less lenient, particularly under Labour.

The Economist

Four Serbian players were banned, while two of their coaches are suspended for two years but the punishment was thought by many to be too lenient, particularly in view of the £80,000 fine imposed on Denmark's Nicklas Bendtner for promoting a betting company on his underwear  during Euro 2012.

BBC

I like to write in the morning, I usually write from home, either my desk or if I'm feeling particularly indulgent and lenient I will write on the couch.

Huffington Post

But Mr. Malley said that while Muslims viewed Mr. Obama as "the most friendly and the most understanding U.S. president they have ever witnessed," many are disappointed in the president's policies, particularly what they regard as his lenient stance toward Israel.

The New York Times

From talking with mothers, many of whom have gone on to start foundations and advocate for reform, Smith says she has been most surprised to learn about the ease with which illegal guns cross state lines, particularly from southern states with more lenient gun laws into the north-east.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing policies or legal systems, use "particularly lenient" to emphasize an unexpected degree of leniency. For example, "The regulations in this zone are particularly lenient compared to national standards."

Common error

Avoid using "particularly lenient" in casual conversation. It's better suited for formal writing, where its nuanced emphasis on exceptional leniency is more appropriate. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "very forgiving" or "really easygoing" are often more fitting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "particularly lenient" functions as an adverbial modifier intensifying the adjective "lenient". It describes the degree to which someone or something exhibits leniency. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in English, with examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "particularly lenient" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that emphasizes a high degree of tolerance or forgiveness. As noted by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the adjective "lenient". While appropriate in neutral and formal registers, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When using this phrase, consider alternative options like "especially forgiving" or "remarkably permissive" to ensure you convey the precise nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

especially forgiving

Emphasizes the act of forgiving, adding a nuance of active pardon.

remarkably permissive

Highlights the allowance of actions, implying a broad level of acceptance.

unusually tolerant

Focuses on the acceptance of diverse views or behaviors, suggesting open-mindedness.

notably indulgent

Implies a willingness to overlook faults or weaknesses, adding a sense of pampering.

exceptionally merciful

Stresses compassion and the withholding of punishment, adding a moral dimension.

strikingly clement

Highlights mildness or gentleness in judgment or action, suggesting a temperate approach.

surprisingly gracious

Emphasizes kindness and courtesy, even when not expected, adding a touch of elegance.

demonstrably forbearing

Highlights patience and self-control, implying a restraint from reacting negatively.

noticeably magnanimous

Implies generosity and nobility of spirit, suggesting a willingness to overlook insults or injuries.

distinctly charitable

Focuses on benevolence and goodwill, adding a sense of benevolence and goodwill in one's actions.

FAQs

How can I use "particularly lenient" in a sentence?

You can use "particularly lenient" to describe rules, policies, or individuals that show a higher degree of tolerance or forgiveness than is typical. For instance, "The university's attendance policy is "particularly lenient" compared to other institutions".

What are some alternatives to "particularly lenient"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "especially forgiving", "remarkably permissive", or "unusually tolerant". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "particularly lenient"?

It's appropriate to use "particularly lenient" in formal contexts, such as legal documents, academic papers, or professional reports, where you need to emphasize the exceptional degree of leniency being described. Using "particularly lenient" adds a layer of emphasis to the leniency in question.

What's the difference between "lenient" and "particularly lenient"?

"Lenient" describes a general tendency to be forgiving or tolerant. "Particularly lenient" emphasizes that the leniency is notably greater than what is usually expected or observed. In other words, "particularly lenient" suggests a higher degree of tolerance.