a special exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a special exception" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a unique or specific case that deviates from the general rule or standard. Example: "Due to the unforeseen circumstances, we are making a special exception to our usual policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Instead of a special exception, my students will eventually get a date in truancy court.

The Washington Post

Current zoning allows only single-family homes, but the college had been granted a special exception as an educational institution.

The New York Times

Leyland has taken the next step toward final approval by applying for a special exception for its site plan.

The New York Times

But there is a special exception in section 8 permitting reports of evidence disclosed in proceedings such as these.

The Guardian

Mr. Gauck would have to make a special exception to confer the award, which is not given posthumously.

The New York Times

Parker is a special exception in any case: He is playing in his native France, for Asvel Villeurbanne, a team in which he has part ownership.

The New York Times - Sports

The Cranston Public Schools Committee met Monday night to ask the state to create a special exception to a law it has cited in banning the dances.

The New York Times

Women were under enormous pressure to marry, but men, we were told, could get a special exception to stay single if it was God's will.

The Guardian - Opinion

Though the site is currently zoned for single-family homes, Mr. Standish said he would ask the zoning board to approve a special exception permit for his proposal.

The New York Times

But he added that the development's proposed access points for emergency vehicles still require a special exception -- not considered a variance -- from the township.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He pressed Rabbi Konikov to apply for a special-exception permit to continue using the house for religious services.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a special exception", clearly state the original rule or standard from which the exception is being made to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid framing sentences like "a special exception was made". Instead, actively state who is making the exception (e.g., "the board granted a special exception") for greater clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a special exception" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the object of a preposition. It denotes a specific instance where a rule or policy is waived or altered. Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase is generally considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

6%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a special exception" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase to denote a specific case where a standard rule or policy is waived. According to Ludwig AI, it is generally considered correct and usable. Its occurrence is particularly common in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Formal & Business" contexts, indicating a broad applicability across different writing styles. When using this phrase, it is essential to clearly articulate the basis for the exception and the specific rule being deviated from to avoid ambiguity. Remember to choose active voice constructions and consider alternatives like "a particular exemption" or "a unique allowance" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A particular exemption

Focuses on the specific nature of the exemption.

A unique allowance

Emphasizes the singular and distinctive aspect of the allowance.

A one-time concession

Highlights that the concession is granted only once.

A specific dispensation

Implies a formal release from a rule or obligation in a particular instance.

An individual waiver

Indicates the rule is waived for a specific person or situation.

A customized provision

Shows that the provision is tailored to fit unique circumstances.

A case-by-case accommodation

Emphasizes decisions are made separately for each situation.

An exceptional circumstance

Shifts focus to the rare nature of the situation justifying deviation.

A non-standard procedure

Indicates that the usual process is not being followed.

A privileged deviation

Suggests a departure from the norm granted to someone with privilege.

FAQs

How can I use "a special exception" in a sentence?

You can use "a special exception" to indicate a deviation from the norm, as in, "The university made "a special exception" for the student due to their extraordinary circumstances".

What phrases are similar to "a special exception"?

Alternatives include "a particular exemption", "a unique allowance", or "a one-time concession" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a special exception" in formal writing?

It's appropriate when you need to explain that a standard rule or procedure does not apply in a specific, unusual case. Be sure to justify why "a unique allowance" is warranted.

What's the difference between "a special exception" and "a general exception"?

"A special exception" applies to a single, specific instance, whereas "a general exception" applies to a broader category of cases or individuals. Always clarify the scope when using either phrase.