exception to this rule

USAGE SUMMARY

"exception to this rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when one is referring to something that deviates from a particular rule, law, or norm. For example, "There are no exceptions to this rule - everyone must obey it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The exception to this rule.

The New York Times

I am no exception to this rule.

The Guardian - Opinion

Annie is perhaps the exception to this rule.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And "Body of Lies" is no exception to this rule.

The New Yorker

Even prison fails to be an exception to this rule.

The Guardian - Books

There is one grand exception to this rule of penury.

The New York Times

There is only one exception to this rule.

The Guardian - Opinion

Local government appears to be the exception to this rule.

The Guardian

The American imperium is no exception to this rule.

The New York Times

I.G.s are an exception to this rule — sort of.

The New Yorker

(Famously bureaucratic India is one exception to this rule, apparently).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exception to this rule", clearly state the rule before mentioning the exception to avoid confusing the reader.

Common error

Avoid assuming that identifying one "exception to this rule" invalidates the entire rule. Exceptions often exist within generally valid principles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exception to this rule" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving to introduce a specific instance that does not conform to a general principle. As Ludwig highlights, it's used to point out deviations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

29%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exception to this rule" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces a deviation from a general principle. As Ludwig confirms, it serves to clarify statements and refine their scope, appearing most commonly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When using the phrase, clarity is key. State the rule before mentioning the exception to avoid confusion. Remember that identifying an exception doesn't necessarily invalidate the rule itself, as "exceptions often exist within generally valid principles". Alternative phrases, such as "rare exception" or "special case", may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rare exception

Stresses the scarcity or infrequency of the deviation.

special case

Implies that the situation requires unique consideration or treatment.

deviation from the norm

Focuses on the departure from what is typical or expected.

outlier in this situation

Implies that the situation is far removed from the main group or average.

departure from the standard

Emphasizes a divergence from an established benchmark or criterion.

anomaly in this case

Highlights the unusual or irregular nature of the situation.

irregularity in the pattern

Points out a break in a predictable sequence or arrangement.

atypical instance

Underscores that the occurrence is not representative or common.

unusual occurrence

Highlights the infrequency or unexpectedness of the event.

one-off situation

Suggests that the event is isolated and unlikely to be repeated.

FAQs

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

You can use "exception to this rule" to introduce a specific case that doesn't follow a general principle. For example, "Most students prefer coffee, but John is an "exception to this rule"; he only drinks tea."

What's a good alternative to "exception to this rule"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "rare exception", "special case", or "deviation from the norm".

Is it correct to say "exceptions of this rule"?

While understandable, "exceptions of this rule" is not as idiomatic as ""exception to this rule"" or "exceptions to this rule". The preposition "to" is generally preferred in this context.

What does it mean when something is "no exception to this rule"?

When something is "no exception to this rule", it means that it conforms to the rule and does not deviate from it. In other words, it follows the general principle being discussed.