exceptions can be made

USAGE SUMMARY

'exceptions can be made' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when a situation in which a general rule doesn't apply in a specific instance arises. For example, "Although the company policy is to close at 5 pm every day, exceptions can be made for special circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

"Exceptions can be made.

Independent

No exceptions can be made.

The New York Times

Exceptions can be made under extenuating circumstances.

The New Yorker

Exceptions can be made for certain numbers.

The New York Times - Tech

Exceptions can be made for very promising applicants.

University of California, Berkeley

Exceptions can be made for health reasons but not for principled objections.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

But an exception can be made.

The New York Times - Sports

But in this case, perhaps, an exception can be made.

The New York Times - Books

The rare exception can be made for flights "in the public interest".

The New Yorker

"We think an exception can be made for poorest and least-emitting countries," he says.

The Washington Post

Janet asks if an exception can be made for a couple of tame older folks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exceptions can be made", clearly state the conditions or circumstances under which the exception is applicable to avoid ambiguity. For example, "While our policy is 'no refunds', exceptions can be made in cases of medical emergencies."

Common error

Avoid making exceptions so broad that they undermine the original rule. Ensure that exceptions are specific and justifiable. Instead of saying "exceptions can be made for any reason", specify "exceptions can be made for documented emergencies only".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceptions can be made" functions as a statement of possibility, indicating that deviations from a general rule or policy are permissible under certain circumstances. As confirmed by Ludwig, this is a valid and commonly used expression in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exceptions can be made" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile phrase used to indicate that rules or policies are not always rigid. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is acceptable in written English. It enjoys widespread use across diverse contexts, from academic discussions and news reports to general communications. While suitable for various situations, it's crucial to define clearly the conditions under which exceptions are permissible. Alternative expressions include "special considerations may apply" or "allowances can be granted", each carrying subtly different connotations. Ultimately, the phrase offers a degree of flexibility and adaptability in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

special considerations may apply

This alternative suggests that unique circumstances might warrant a different approach.

allowances can be granted

This implies a formal permission to deviate from a rule.

modifications are possible

This suggests that adjustments can be implemented to the standard procedure.

adaptations are permissible

This conveys the idea that changes are allowed under certain conditions.

deviations are acceptable

This indicates that departing from the norm is allowed within specific limits.

flexibility is available

This emphasizes the adaptability of a system or rule.

certain waivers may be issued

This suggests that formal exemptions can be provided.

special cases might be considered

This indicates the possibility of reviewing individual situations.

alternative arrangements are possible

This suggests that different solutions can be implemented.

leniency might be exercised

This conveys the idea that rules might be applied less strictly.

FAQs

How to use "exceptions can be made" in a sentence?

Use "exceptions can be made" to indicate that although a rule or policy generally applies, there are specific circumstances where it might not. For example, "The deadline is usually strict, but "exceptions can be made" for unforeseen circumstances."

What can I say instead of "exceptions can be made"?

You can use alternatives like "special considerations may apply", "allowances can be granted", or "modifications are possible" depending on the specific context. See more alternatives under "related phrases".

Is it grammatically correct to say "exceptions can be made"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Exceptions can be made" is a common and accepted way to express that there are circumstances under which a rule does not apply. Ludwig AI confirms this.

What's the difference between "exceptions can be made" and "an exception can be made"?

"Exceptions can be made" implies that there are multiple possible scenarios where the rule doesn't apply. "An exception can be made" suggests a single, specific situation might warrant a deviation from the rule.