allow for exceptions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allow for exceptions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing rules, policies, or guidelines that may not apply in every situation. Example: "While our policy is strict, we can allow for exceptions in cases of genuine hardship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"I just want to allow for exceptions to the rule".

The New York Times

Sony's guidelines allow for exceptions if the scenes are needed for historical authenticity or to deliver an antismoking message.

The New York Times

He said there was already a proposal that would probably be taken up at a churchwide assembly in August to allow for exceptions to the Episcopal ordination requirements.

The New York Times

The new measure does allow for exceptions, like gifts between close relatives or people who are in love, although critics say that such a sentiment is hard to define.

The New York Times

"In the current Italian and Sicilian environment," Mr. Settis said, "laws are there to allow for exceptions, and exceptions are permitted in order to allow for negotiation, and negotiation will be about what to get in exchange".

The New York Times - Arts

Cases that allow for exceptions include the "substantial assistance" of a cooperating defendant, the drain on resources that a trial might cause and the Justice Department's approval of a "fast-track" program used to expedite prosecutions, like the type used in Southwest border states to prosecute illegal immigrants.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Little League policy allows for exceptions to a standard enforcement of residency rules.

The New York Times - Sports

One can easily conjure a policy that prohibits abortion as a general matter but allows for exceptions in extraordinary cases.

The New York Times

Ms. Gibbs said that while the law forbids barracks-style shelters for families, she was confident that it also allows for exceptions in emergencies.

The New York Times

He said the Republican platform should include language allowing for exceptions to an abortion ban that would cover cases of incest and rape and those where the mother's life was in danger.

The New York Times

The plan encourages pilots not to drop retardant within 300 feet of a body of water, but it allows for exceptions if flying conditions require it or if lives or property are in danger.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting policies or guidelines, explicitly state the criteria under which "allow for exceptions" to maintain transparency and fairness.

Common error

Avoid using overly broad or subjective criteria when determining when to "allow for exceptions". This can lead to inconsistent application and perceived bias.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow for exceptions" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to indicate that a rule, law, or guideline can be waived or modified under certain circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

31%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "allow for exceptions" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that rules or policies are not always absolute. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It’s most frequently encountered in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When using "allow for exceptions", be sure to define clear criteria for these exceptions to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "make allowances" or "permit deviations". The phrase serves to communicate flexibility and adaptability in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make allowances

Focuses on considering specific factors that justify a deviation.

permit deviations

Emphasizes the act of officially allowing a departure from the norm.

grant exemptions

Highlights the formal process of providing immunity from a rule.

provide waivers

Suggests a formal release from a requirement, often temporary.

accommodate variations

Focuses on adjusting to differences or changes within a set standard.

recognize special cases

Highlights the acknowledgement and acceptance of unique circumstances.

leave room for flexibility

Indicates the design of a system to include adaptability.

offer concessions

Implies granting privileges or exceptions as a gesture.

tolerate irregularities

Suggests passively accepting deviations without necessarily approving them.

make special provisions

Focuses on creating specific arrangements to accommodate unique needs.

FAQs

How can I use "allow for exceptions" in a sentence?

You can use "allow for exceptions" when you want to indicate that a rule or policy has specific circumstances under which it does not apply. For example, "While the policy is strict, we "allow for exceptions" in cases of genuine hardship".

What's a formal alternative to "allow for exceptions"?

In a formal context, you could use phrases like "grant exemptions" or "permit deviations" to convey a similar meaning to "allow for exceptions", but with a more official tone.

Is it better to say "allow for exceptions" or "make exceptions"?

Both "allow for exceptions" and "make exceptions" are correct, but ""allow for exceptions"" often implies that the possibility of exceptions is already built into a system or rule, whereas "make exceptions" suggests a more ad hoc decision.

What is the difference between ""allow for exceptions"" and "tolerate irregularities"?

"Allow for exceptions" suggests a formal or planned deviation, while "tolerate irregularities" implies accepting deviations that occur, perhaps without formal approval or planning. "Allow for exceptions" is proactive; "tolerate irregularities" is reactive.