The phrase "became lenient" means to become more permissive, flexible, or forgiving. Its antonyms, on the other hand, refer to the opposite of leniency, namely strictness, severity, and rigidity. Synonyms for strictness include sternness, harshness, and inflexibility, all of which indicate an unyielding or uncompromising attitude. Conversely, synonyms for leniency include tolerance, indulgence, and clemency, all of which suggest a willingness to be merciful or forgiving. When someone has become lenient, they have relaxed their standards or expectations; by contrast, when they are strict, they demand obedience and compliance with the rules. Antonyms for "became lenient" indicate a shift towards discipline or punishment, rather than leniency and lenity.