exception to the general rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exception to the general rule" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to explain a situation in which an individual or set of circumstances do not fit the norm. For example, "However, there is an exception to the general rule in this case - the rules of the road do not apply to emergency service vehicles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another exception to the general rule that courts will generally only judicially review errors of law is where action is taken or a decision is made on the basis of no evidence, a lack of sufficient evidence, or an error of material fact.

Wikipedia

He is also no exception to the general rule that Forsythean is not Forsythe.

The New York Times - Arts

Importantly, though, there is an exception to the general rule barring prior bad-acts evidence.

The New Yorker

The main exception to the general rule seems to be Scotland.

The Guardian - Books

That decision recognized an exception to the general rule that peremptory challenges are completely discretionary.

The New York Times

But the court has never squarely confronted whether racial or ethnic prejudice requires an exception to the general rule.

The New York Times

But for me, he was a worthy exception to the general rule that the more anonymous a referee, the better.

The Guardian - Sport

The case before us is a typical one for the application of this exception to the general rule.

Cornell University

Fossil-fuel pricing is a striking exception to the general rule that if the government has only one policy instrument, it can achieve only one policy objective.

The Guardian - Business

"Skiing is no exception to the general rule that every sport is more amusing in its earlier than its later phase," Arnold Lunn wrote.

The New Yorker

The measure requiring firing for retaliation would create an exception to the general rule that agencies have wide discretion over disciplining their employees.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exception to the general rule", clearly state the general rule first to provide context and then introduce the exception.

Common error

Avoid using "exception to the general rule" when referring to personal preferences or subjective opinions. This phrase is most appropriate when discussing established rules or norms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exception to the general rule" functions as a qualifier or modifier, indicating a specific instance that deviates from a widely accepted principle. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

32%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exception to the general rule" is a commonly used phrase to denote a deviation from a widely accepted principle. It is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, as validated by Ludwig. The phrase functions as a qualifier, often introducing caveats. It maintains a neutral register and is prominently featured in news, academic, and scientific sources. While alternatives exist, "exception to the general rule" clearly conveys that a certain case does not apply to an existing rule. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departure from the norm

Focuses on the act of deviating from what is typical or expected.

deviation from the standard

Highlights the divergence from an established benchmark or criterion.

case that defies the rule

Emphasizes a specific instance that does not conform to a particular rule.

infringement of the regulation

It refers to the act of violating or breaking a rule or law. It is useful in the contexts of law or rule enforcement.

special case

Indicates a situation that requires different treatment due to its unique characteristics.

anomaly

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

irregularity

Suggests a deviation from what is considered normal or acceptable.

nonconformity

Emphasizes the lack of agreement or compliance with a standard or norm.

aberration

Indicates a departure from what is normal, usual, or expected, typically with negative connotations.

exemption to standard practice

Denotes a situation where someone or something is excused from following the usual procedures.

FAQs

How can I use "exception to the general rule" in a sentence?

You can use "exception to the general rule" to indicate a specific instance or case that does not follow a widely accepted principle. For example: "While most companies require a college degree, there's an "exception to the general rule" for candidates with extensive experience."

What's the difference between "exception to the rule" and "exception to the general rule"?

Both phrases are similar. "Exception to the rule" is more concise and can refer to any rule, while "exception to the general rule" implies that the rule being referred to is broad and widely applicable.

Are there synonyms for the phrase "exception to the general rule"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "departure from the norm", "deviation from the standard", or "special case" depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "exception to the general rule"?

This phrase is suitable for academic writing, legal contexts, or any situation where you need to explain that a common principle does not apply in a specific situation. It's often used to introduce a caveat or qualification to a broad statement.