exception to this pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exception to this pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a case or situation that does not conform to a previously established pattern or rule. Example: "While most students performed well on the exam, there was one exception to this pattern: Sarah, who struggled significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Thunderstorms are no exception to this pattern.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tom Wales was an exception to this pattern.

The New Yorker

Again, Germany remains the most notable exception to this pattern.

The Guardian

The big exception to this pattern is the attorney-general.

The Economist

One notable exception to this pattern emerged in 2006.

The New York Times - Science

Federal grand jury hearings, however, seem to be an exception to this pattern of neglect.

The New York Times

An exception to this pattern arises when slightly above-freezing water flows beneath the ice cover.

Encyclopedia Britannica

An exception to this pattern could be found in those areas where Islam had spread.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is a single very big exception to this pattern and it is over the EU referendum.

The Guardian - Opinion

The exception to this pattern, of course, was at Tiananmen Square, where Chinese authorities quashed the student revolt.

The New York Times

The South Indian language of Tamil is an exception to this pattern of Sanskrit influence because it had a classical tradition of its own.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exception to this pattern", clearly define the pattern you're referencing before introducing the exception. This provides context and makes the statement more understandable.

Common error

Avoid using "exception to this pattern" without clearly establishing what the 'pattern' is. Without context, the phrase loses its meaning and becomes confusing for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exception to this pattern" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or appositive. Ludwig shows its role in identifying something that deviates from a previously established norm or trend.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exception to this pattern" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for indicating a deviation from an established trend or norm. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, it is crucial to clearly define the 'pattern' being referenced to ensure clarity and avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "departure from this norm" or "deviation from this trend" can be used depending on the specific context. The phrase is versatile enough for formal and scientific writing, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departure from this norm

Emphasizes the act of deviating from a standard or typical behavior.

deviation from this trend

Highlights the divergence from a prevailing direction or tendency.

anomaly in this regularity

Focuses on the irregularity or oddity within a consistent sequence or occurrence.

divergence from this standard

Indicates a move away from an accepted or established level of quality or attainment.

inconsistency with this behavior

Points out a lack of uniformity or predictability in actions or reactions.

unconformity to this model

Highlights the non-compliance or non-adherence to a specific design or representation.

variance from this rule

Shows the degree of difference from a prescribed guideline or regulation.

irregularity in this sequence

Notes the lack of order or consistency in a series of events or items.

contradiction to this expectation

Emphasizes the conflict with what is anticipated or predicted.

atypical instance of this occurrence

Describes a situation that is not representative or characteristic of a common event.

FAQs

How can I use "exception to this pattern" in a sentence?

You can use "exception to this pattern" to introduce a case or instance that deviates from a general trend or rule. For example: "While most students excelled in mathematics, John was an exception to this pattern."

What are some alternatives to saying "exception to this pattern"?

You can use alternatives like "departure from this norm", "deviation from this trend", or "anomaly in this regularity" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "exception to this pattern"?

Yes, "exception to this pattern" is grammatically correct and widely used in both formal and informal writing.

What is the difference between "exception to this pattern" and "inconsistency with this behavior"?

"Exception to this pattern" implies a single instance that doesn't fit the norm, while "inconsistency with this behavior" suggests a broader lack of uniformity.