in exceptional cases

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in exceptional cases" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to unusual or rare circumstances when something is different from the normal pattern or situation. For example, "In exceptional cases, the judge may choose to reduce the sentence for a minor offense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The human brain, except in exceptional cases, can't remember a string of 16 solos.

The New York Times - Arts

Or, in exceptional cases: "Oh, that's hysterical".

The Guardian - Opinion

Currently, this is only possible in exceptional cases.

The Guardian

In exceptional cases, soft power can rebrand a nation.

The Guardian - Opinion

In exceptional cases the title alone is enough.

The Guardian - Books

The DHE said it only intervenes in "exceptional" cases.

The Guardian

In exceptional cases, refugees could go to Israel.

The New York Times - Magazine

My previous permission is also necessary in exceptional cases.

Yale University

Arguments alone, appeals to rationality alone, work in exceptional cases.

Yale University

Current German law allows dual citizenship only in exceptional cases.

The New York Times

In exceptional cases, however, the opposite is true.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in exceptional cases", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes an 'exceptional' circumstance to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "in exceptional cases" as a filler phrase. Only use it when you can genuinely justify why a situation warrants a deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in exceptional cases" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify under what circumstances an action or situation occurs. As Ludwig AI pointed out, it indicates that something happens only in rare or unusual situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

27%

Science

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in exceptional cases" is a common adverbial phrase used to indicate that a statement or action applies only in rare or unusual circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its frequency across various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science, suggests broad applicability. When using this phrase, be sure to clearly define what constitutes an 'exceptional' case to maintain clarity and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "in rare instances" or "under special conditions" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Remember, "in exceptional cases" sets a boundary, highlighting deviations from the norm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in rare instances

Replaces "cases" with "instances" and "exceptional" with "rare", emphasizing the infrequency.

in unusual circumstances

Substitutes "cases" with "circumstances" and "exceptional" with "unusual", focusing on the atypical nature of the situation.

under special conditions

Replaces "exceptional cases" with "special conditions", shifting the focus to specific requirements being met.

in specific situations

Uses "specific situations" instead of "exceptional cases", highlighting particular scenarios.

on rare occasions

Emphasizes the infrequency of the event by using "occasions" and "rare".

as an exception

Shortens the phrase, focusing on the concept of something being an exception to the rule.

in extraordinary circumstances

Replaces "exceptional" with "extraordinary", amplifying the unusual nature of the situation.

in isolated instances

Focuses on the singular and infrequent nature of the occurrences.

in select circumstances

Highlights that the circumstances are carefully chosen or limited.

only when warranted

Shifts the focus to the justification for the action, implying it is not routine.

FAQs

How can I use "in exceptional cases" in a sentence?

Use "in exceptional cases" to indicate situations that deviate from the norm. For example, "The standard procedure is to deny the request, but "in exceptional cases", it may be approved."

What phrases are similar to "in exceptional cases"?

Similar phrases include "in rare instances", "in unusual circumstances", or "under special conditions". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "in very exceptional cases"?

While not strictly incorrect, "very" is often redundant because "exceptional" already implies rarity. Using just "in exceptional cases" is generally sufficient.

When should I not use "in exceptional cases"?

Avoid using "in exceptional cases" when the situation is not truly unusual or when you cannot clearly define what makes it exceptional. Using alternatives like "sometimes" or "occasionally" might be more appropriate.