When it comes to showing mercy or being gentle in your approach, there are plenty of synonyms for the phrase "be lenient." Some alternative phrases you could use include "go easy on," "take it easy," or "be forgiving." Another option is to "cut some slack" or "give some leeway" in your decisions. If you're looking to be more accommodating, "be understanding" or "show tolerance" could also work. At the same time, you could choose to be "gracious" or "compassionate" in your dealings with others. Whatever the context, opting for a more lenient approach can make a big difference in how people perceive you as a leader or member of a team.