English vocabulary · B2
Leeway
/ˈliː.weɪ/ · n.
It means the freedom or space to do something in a way that is not too strict.
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Example sentences
- The teacher gave students leeway on the deadline.
- The budget has no leeway for extra costs.
Word origin and roots
from Old English
- lee — sheltered side (from Old English)
- way — room to move (from Old English)
Synonyms and nuances
- FLEXIBILITY — ability to change easily (Adjustable & Open)
- ROOM — space to do something (Space to Act)
- MARGIN — amount beyond the minimum (Safe Extra Space)
Words with the same root
lee — sheltered side
- leeward — side away from the wind
Lesson notes
Leeway. It means the freedom or space to do something in a way that is not too strict.
Similar words are flexibility, room, and space. Use leeway when someone has the power to allow a little more freedom.
The teacher gave students leeway on the deadline. The budget has no leeway for extra costs.
lee- means the sheltered side. way- means room to move. A sheltered space where you can move freely — that is leeway.