The term 'less lenient' can be described by the crossword solutions of 'sterner', 'firmer', 'harder', and 'HARSHER'. These words all refer to a lack of leniency, or mercy, in a situation. Sterner implies a more serious attitude, firmer suggests a stronger stance, harder implies a greater difficulty, and HARSHER implies a more severe outcome. All of these words together suggest that the situation is less lenient than it was before.