certain exceptions apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain exceptions apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal, formal, or informational contexts to indicate that while a general rule or statement is true, there are specific cases where it does not hold. Example: "The offer is valid for all customers; however, certain exceptions apply for those who have previously used a discount."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But certain exceptions apply.

The New York Times

It stipulates that every family can have only one child, though certain exceptions apply.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Certain exceptions may apply.

Huffington Post

Some exceptions apply".

The New York Times

(As with all tax laws, some exceptions apply).

The New York Times

None of these exceptions apply here.

TechCrunch

Certain exceptions can sometimes apply.

WikiHow

With certain exceptions, of course.

The New Yorker

There are certain exceptions.

The New Yorker

Certain exceptions are still allowed for humanitarian aid and remittances.

The New York Times

He pointed out that the American Inventors Protection Act of 1999 includes certain exceptions to business methods patents.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain exceptions apply", be prepared to provide details about those exceptions or direct the reader to where they can find more information. This enhances transparency and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "certain exceptions apply" without providing context or resources where readers can learn about these exceptions. Failing to do so can leave your audience confused and frustrated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain exceptions apply" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a general statement or rule is not universally true and that specific conditions may alter its applicability. It serves to set expectations that not every situation will conform to the general rule.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain exceptions apply" is a common qualifier used to indicate that a general statement or rule has specific limitations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's frequently found in news, wiki, and scientific sources. When using this phrase, it's essential to provide context or resources where readers can understand these exceptions to avoid confusion. Alternatives like "some exclusions may apply" can be used to convey a similar meaning. Remember to always offer clarifications on what specific circumstances might affect the statement you are making, and do not simply leave readers hanging with no additional explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some exceptions are applicable

Replaces "certain" with "some" and uses "applicable" instead of "apply", resulting in a slightly more formal tone.

specific exemptions may be in effect

Substitutes "exceptions" with "exemptions", and uses "may be in effect" for "apply", indicating a potential for exemptions.

particular conditions are relevant

Replaces "exceptions" with "conditions" and "apply" with "are relevant", shifting the focus to specific stipulations.

some caveats are in place

Uses "caveats" instead of "exceptions" and "are in place" instead of "apply", suggesting a cautionary note.

certain limitations are valid

Replaces "exceptions" with "limitations" and "apply" with "are valid", highlighting restrictions.

not all rules are absolute

Emphasizes that rules are not always strict, implying there are exceptions.

some stipulations are applicable

Swaps "exceptions" for "stipulations", focusing on agreed-upon terms.

qualifications exist in some cases

Rephrases to emphasize that qualifications or conditions alter the standard.

variations may occur

Indicates that the general rule might change, presenting situations that differ from the norm.

special circumstances may be relevant

Suggests that unique situations might trigger different outcomes or conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "certain exceptions apply" in a sentence?

You can use "certain exceptions apply" to indicate that a general rule has specific cases where it doesn't hold true. For example, "The discount is available to all customers; however, "certain exceptions apply" for bulk orders.".

What's a less formal way to say "certain exceptions apply"?

Informally, you could say "but there are some exceptions" or "some rules don't always apply". These alternatives are more conversational.

Is it better to list the exceptions instead of saying "certain exceptions apply"?

Listing the exceptions provides more clarity and is generally preferred, especially in legal or formal contexts. However, if the list is extensive, ""certain exceptions apply"" can serve as a concise placeholder.

Are "certain exceptions apply" and "some exclusions may apply" interchangeable?

Yes, they are very similar. "Some exclusions may apply" is another way to indicate that a general rule has specific cases where it doesn't hold true.