an exception from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an exception from" is not commonly used in written English; the correct expression is "an exception to." You can use "an exception to" when referring to a rule or general principle that does not apply in a specific case.
Example: "There is an exception to the policy that allows for late submissions under certain circumstances."

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The bishops are aware they are requesting something that will have to be exceptional law in this country, meaning that it is an exception from the law of the rest of the church," Monsignor Maniscalco said.

The New York Times

Quarry Village has obtained an exception from Hayward.

The New York Times - Science

Thus interior linemen are granted an exception from having to wear jersey numbers 50 through 79.

The New York Times - Sports

The Court, in my view, should not depart, or create an exception, from Hudson's framework here.

Cornell University

Whether circumstances might make an exception from this principle need not be considered here.

Cornell University

He wants an exception from the state law's "last hired, first fired" provision.

The New York Times

The Denver Komen has been granted an exception from the funding cutoff, according to a statement on its Facebook page.

The Washington Post

However, the Supreme Court appealed for an exception from the electoral tribunal, which lifted Martinelli's immunity in April.

Britannica

Section 619 contains an exception from the prohibition on proprietary trading for trades done "solely outside of the United States".

The New York Times

This seems to be an exception from simple precipitation kinetics and can be explained based on the complex role of quenched-in vacancies in artificial aging of AA6061.

Acta Materialia

I was hoping for you to say that, clearly, what was needed there was not some sort of an exception from a rule against racial profiling.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "an exception from" is frequently used, consider using the grammatically preferred "an exception to" for clearer communication. However, in some contexts, "an exemption from" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "from" when "to" is grammatically correct. While "an exception from" is prevalent, it's often more precise to say "an exception to" when referring to a rule or principle. For example, use "an exception to the rule" rather than "an exception from the rule".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exception from" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, indicating a specific instance or situation that deviates from a general rule or principle. Ludwig provides examples where it's used in legal, scientific, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

35%

Science

28%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an exception from" is frequently used across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While prevalent, Ludwig AI notes that it's grammatically questionable, with "an exception to" being the preferred form. The phrase typically functions as a noun phrase indicating a deviation from a general rule or standard. If you're looking for alternatives, consider "an exemption from", "a waiver of", or "a departure from" for clarity and precision. In short, be mindful of the grammatical nuance and choose the most appropriate phrasing for your context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exemption from

Replaces "exception" with a synonym emphasizing release from obligation.

a waiver of

Suggests a formal relinquishment of a requirement.

an exclusion from

Focuses on being excluded from a general category or rule.

a departure from

Indicates a deviation from a standard practice.

a special case for

Highlights the unique circumstances that warrant different treatment.

an allowance for

Implies permission to deviate under specific conditions.

a dispensation from

A more formal term for being excused from a rule.

immunity from

Signifies protection or freedom from a legal requirement.

release from

Emphasizes the act of being freed from an obligation.

exoneration from

Suggests being cleared of responsibility or obligation.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "an exception from"?

While frequently used, the phrase "an exception from" is considered grammatically questionable. The more grammatically sound alternative is "an exception to". However, its usage can vary based on context.

When should I use "an exemption from" instead of "an exception from"?

Use "an exemption from" when referring to a release from a duty, tax, or rule. For example, "an exemption from military service" is appropriate when someone is excused from serving.

What's the difference between "an exception from" and "an exception to"?

"An exception to" refers to a specific instance where a general rule does not apply. "An exception from", while used, is often considered less grammatically correct. In general, "an exception to" is the preferred construction.

What are some alternatives to "an exception from" that I can use in my writing?

Consider using phrases like "an exemption from", "a departure from", or "a waiver of" depending on the specific context. These alternatives may offer greater clarity and grammatical correctness.