exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exception" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is not included in a general rule or statement. Example: "All employees must submit their reports by Friday, with the exception of those on leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The one exception was Abbott's remark when he urged Indonesia to "reciprocate" for Australian aid by sparing the lives of Chan and Sukumaran.

The Guardian

On the contrary in fact, with the exception of a Lord Ashcroft poll that has the Conservatives leading by six points, the trend across polls has Labour marginally ahead.

The Guardian

Our memories of cricket, unlike other sports (though, as usual, I'll make an exception for cycling's Grands Tours) are themselves fictions.

The Guardian - Sport

Putting gardens on to roofs can be a risky business, and the garden at the School of Oriental and African Studies was no exception.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Levels of customer service are still probably the worst of any European capital, but truly egregious rudeness and aggression are now the exception rather than the norm, as a whole generation of Muscovites who have travelled the world no longer find surly, Soviet-style service acceptable at home.

The Guardian

The definition of elected officials here includes everyone from mayors (Boris Johnson) to MSPs, with the exception of local councillors.

The Guardian

She adds: "All British firms and organisations operating in Qatar need to look carefully at the way the workers they rely on are treated, and universities like UCL can be no exception to that".

The Guardian

Federico Addiechi, the head of corporate and social responsibility for Fifa, told the Guardian that "there's a discrimination problem in every country, and Russia's no exception".

The Guardian - Sport

The exception is UKIP, which doesn't mention it.

The Guardian - Tech

Unfortunately, this is often the exception rather than the rule in a system where chief executives and other senior managers turn over much too rapidly to have any chance of making a tangible difference.

The Guardian

All this makes him quite the exception in Iganga, but across Uganda this young man is by no means a solo pioneer and his store is by no means unique.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exception" to clearly indicate a specific instance or situation that does not follow a general rule or pattern. This helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "exception" without clearly defining what the rule or pattern is. Always provide context to ensure the reader understands what the exception refers to.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "exception" is a noun, referring to a case or instance that does not conform to the general rule or pattern. Ludwig's examples confirm its role in indicating deviations or exclusions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "exception" functions as a noun that identifies a deviation from a general rule or pattern. It maintains a neutral to formal register and is frequently used in news, business, and scientific contexts to clarify when something does not adhere to a general principle. According to Ludwig, the examples provided confirm its correct and widespread usage. Understanding the nuances of "exception" and related phrases like "exclusion" or "exemption" helps ensure clarity and precision in writing and communication. Remember to provide context when using "exception" to clearly indicate what is being excluded from the general rule.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Exclusion

Focuses on the act of leaving something out, rather than the instance of being left out.

Exemption

Implies a formal release from a requirement or obligation.

Departure

Highlights the act of deviating from a standard or norm.

Deviation

Emphasizes the variance from an expected course or standard.

Anomaly

Refers to something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

Irregularity

Indicates a departure from established rules or customs.

Qualification

Introduces a limiting factor or condition to a statement or rule.

Special case

Highlights a situation that requires different treatment than usual.

Aberration

Suggests a deviation from the norm that is unwelcome or undesirable.

Inconsistency

Implies a lack of uniformity or logical coherence.

FAQs

How can I use "exception" in a sentence?

You can use "exception" to indicate a case that doesn't conform to a general rule. For example: "All students must attend the lecture, with the "exception of" those who have prior approval."

What can I say instead of "exception"?

You can use alternatives like "exclusion", "exemption", or "anomaly" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "with the exception of" or "except for"?

Both "with the "exception of"" and "except for" are correct and can be used interchangeably to indicate an exclusion. The choice often depends on the desired level of formality.

What's the difference between "exception" and "exemption"?

"Exception" refers to a general exclusion from a rule, while "exemption" typically implies a formal or official release from a requirement or obligation. An "exemption" often requires some sort of approval or specific circumstance.