lenity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Some decisions suggest that it applies only to “grievous ambiguities,” he noted, but “this ‘grievous’ business does not derive from any well-considered theory about lenity or the mainstream of this court’s opinions.”

From Slate • Mar. 1, 2023

Dershowitz further suggested that the "rule of lenity," or the legal doctrine that ambiguities should be resolved in favor of defendants, also counseled towards acquitting the president.

From Fox News • Jan. 27, 2020

In light of this uncertainty, the rule of lenity requires an interpretation that lets S.K. off the hook.

From Slate • Aug. 29, 2019

“Does the rule of lenity apply with the same force when the question is the substantive definition of a crime as distinct from the penalty that’s attached?”

From Slate • Nov. 3, 2015

Like many people, Chris apparently judged artists and close friends by their work, not their life, yet he was temperamentally incapable of extending such lenity to his father.

From "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer