it is an exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is an exception" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that deviates from the norm or usual standard. Example: "The dress code for the office is business casual, but on Fridays, it is an exception and employees are allowed to wear jeans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"The bishops are aware they are requesting something that will have to be exceptional law in this country, meaning that it is an exception from the law of the rest of the church," Monsignor Maniscalco said.

The New York Times

But it is an exception.

The New York Times - Arts

But in important ways, it is an exception.

The New Yorker

It is an exception whose time has expired.

The New York Times - Health

FRANCE "thinks it is an exception to free-market rules".

The Economist

The Athletics pull off this tightwad act with exceedingly bright management, but it is an exception.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

San Antonio recycles almost all of its water, but it's an exception — only 7 percent of water in the United States is reused.

The New York Times

Apple, thanks to Jobs, was an exception to this rule, but it was an exception to a lot of rules.

The Washington Post

Chance is a gift of the moment, if that exists, but it's an exception.

The New Yorker

"It's an exception to the rule that prohibits hearsay evidence.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Munger helpfully summarizes his partner's position this way: "It's an exception, and you like doing it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is an exception", ensure the context clearly establishes the general rule or norm from which the subject deviates.

Common error

Avoid using "it is an exception" without clearly defining the rule or standard that is being deviated from. Providing context ensures clarity and prevents confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is an exception" functions as a statement that something deviates from a general rule, norm, or pattern. The Ludwig examples show usage across various contexts, confirming its role in identifying deviations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is an exception" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to denote something that deviates from a general rule or norm. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows its versatility across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly establishes the rule or standard from which the subject deviates. While it's grammatically sound and widely accepted, misuse can arise if the context isn't clearly established.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's an anomaly

Replaces "exception" with "anomaly", highlighting the unusual or irregular nature of the case.

it's atypical

Replaces "exception" with "atypical", conveying that something is not representative of its kind.

it's an aberration

Uses "aberration" instead of "exception", suggesting a deviation from the standard or norm.

it's a deviation

Focuses on the act of straying from the typical path or rule.

it's an irregularity

Similar to anomaly, but may suggest something is out of order or not conforming to regulations.

it's outside the norm

Simple and direct; emphasizes that something falls outside what is considered normal.

it constitutes a departure

More formal; implies a significant divergence from established procedure or practice.

it's a special case

Highlights the unique circumstances that warrant different treatment or consideration.

it's a one-off

Informal; indicates that something is unlikely to be repeated or is unique.

it's unprecedented

Emphasizes that there's no prior instance or occurrence similar to the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "it is an exception" in a sentence?

Use "it is an exception" to indicate that something does not follow a general rule or pattern. For example, "While most fruits are sweet, the lime "it is an exception" due to its sour taste."

What's the difference between "it is an exception" and "it is an anomaly"?

"It is an exception" implies a deviation from a rule or norm, while "it is an anomaly" suggests something unusual or irregular that doesn't fit into any pattern.

What are some alternatives to "it is an exception"?

You can use alternatives such as "it's atypical", "it's a deviation", or "it's a special case" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to explain the rule when saying "it is an exception"?

While not always grammatically required, providing the context of the rule or standard makes the statement clearer and more effective. For example, instead of just saying ""it is an exception"", you could say "Most days we wear business casual, but today "it is an exception" because we're having a casual Friday".