contain an exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contain an exception" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing rules, statements, or conditions that have specific cases that do not follow the general rule. Example: "The policy is straightforward, but it does contain an exception for emergency situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The McCain-Feingold law does contain an exception for broadcast news reports, commentaries and editorials.

The New York Times

The law does contain an exception for materials of "serious religious, political, scientific, educational, journalistic, historical or artistic value".

The New York Times

But the small banks probably will not have to issue warrants in that program rules contain an exception for infusions of less than $100 million.

The New York Times

The court struck down a nearly identical law in 2000 because it did not contain an exception for the health of the woman.

The Economist

At the very least, any such new defence should contain an exception, allowing judges to give permission for a case to proceed, despite a retraction, where the claimant has suffered identifiable damage from the allegations.

The Guardian

The next question, therefore, is whether the Nebraska statute is unconstitutional because it does not contain an exception that would allow use of the procedure whenever "necessary in appropriate medical judgment, for the preservation of the health of the mother".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The law contains an exception for materials with "serious religious, political, scientific, educational, journalistic, historical or artistic value".

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

However, the statute contained an exception for patents: to encourage innovation, Parliament allowed genuine inventors the right to hold limited monopolies on their inventions.

The New Yorker

The statute in question contained an exception to the prohibition for theatrical productions-but only those productions that did not tend to discredit the armed forces.

Cornell University

But the lease also contains an exception: The state will use its best efforts to include Chelsea Piers in any comprehensive, government-sponsored rehabilitation of the Hudson River piers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contain an exception", clearly define the conditions and scope of the exception to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The policy contains an exception for medical emergencies, which must be documented."

Common error

Avoid stating that a rule "contains an exception" without specifying what the exception entails. A vague exception can lead to misinterpretations and inconsistent application of the rule. Always provide specific details or criteria for the exception.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contain an exception" typically functions as a verb phrase used to describe a rule, law, or agreement that includes a specific condition or allowance that deviates from the general application. This construction indicates that the rule has built-in flexibility or specific circumstances where it does not apply.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

26%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contain an exception" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that conveys the presence of specific allowances within a rule or guideline. It is most common in news, academic, and scientific contexts and aims to clarify the limitations and scope of regulations, as Ludwig AI points out. To ensure clarity, define the exceptions specifically and thoroughly. Alternatives like "include a provision for exemption" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

include a provision for exemption

Changes the verb to "include" and specifies "provision for exemption" for a more formal tone.

incorporate an exclusionary clause

Uses "incorporate" and "exclusionary clause" to emphasize the legal aspect of the exception.

have an exemption built in

Rephrases to focus on the exemption being a built-in part of the rule or law.

offer a waiver in certain cases

Highlights the offering of a waiver rather than a general exception.

allow for specific exemptions

Emphasizes the allowance of exemptions under certain conditions.

carve out an allowance

Implies a deliberate separation or allowance for something specific.

permit a deviation

Focuses on the act of deviating from the standard rule.

entail a special case

Suggests that the exception is a specific instance or scenario covered.

be subject to an exemption

Changes the perspective to what is being exempted rather than what contains it.

possess an escape clause

Implies that the exception allows one to avoid the main rule's impact.

FAQs

How can I use "contain an exception" in a sentence?

You can use "contain an exception" to describe a rule, law, or policy that has a specific condition under which it does not apply. For instance, "The law "contains an exception" for cases of self-defense".

What are some alternatives to saying "contain an exception"?

Alternatives include "include a provision for exemption", "allow for specific exemptions", or "offer a waiver in certain cases", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "includes an exception" or "contains an exception"?

Both "includes an exception" and "contains an exception" are grammatically correct. "Contains" implies that the exception is an inherent part of the rule, while "includes" suggests it's added on. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "exception" and "exemption" when discussing rules?

While often used interchangeably, an "exception" is a deviation from a rule, while an "exemption" is a release from an obligation or requirement. A rule might "contain an exception" for specific situations, granting an "exemption" from certain requirements.