key exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key exception" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important or significant exception to a general rule or principle. Example: "In this case, the key exception to the policy allows for flexibility in unique circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

One participant argued the right to health remains in the "mainstream health sector and global health sector… a niche operation except perhaps the one key exception… the HIV movement" [Iv4176].

BMC International Health and Human Rights

With one key exception.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Amendment T would remove that key exception.

The Guardian

The sticking point in this legislation was the key exception to the journalist's right to protect a whistle-blower.

The New York Times - Magazine

However, our results also revealed — with one key exception — that support for redistribution increased to a much smaller degree.

The New York Times

The interview with the audience that follows is familiar to any student of pop history in all but the detail – with one key exception.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Except for a few key exceptions (Noorda et al. 2007; Bredenoord et al. 2011) the implications of introducing new technologies into the clinic have been missing from the debate.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

I have chosen my favourite 25 grooming products with this in mind, with a few key exceptions.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Customarily, the court has supported a broad interpretation of federal patent law, but with key exceptions for inventions based on mathematical algorithms and products of nature.

The New York Times

Here is Bill Jacobs, the motivational speaker encouraging business to "celebrate diversity", with some key exceptions; here's a campaigner for Parents of Pick-Axe Murdered Children (POPAMC), eager to differentiate her plight from that of other murdered kids' parents.

The Guardian

The key exceptions are the woody wagons of the late 1940s, which are on par with their Ford counterparts, and the 1949-51 models, which can greatly exceed the same-year Fords and other American cars.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "key exception", clearly state the rule or principle from which the exception deviates. This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "key exception" applies broadly. Specify the exact circumstances under which the exception is valid to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key exception" functions as a noun phrase, with "key" modifying "exception" to emphasize its importance or significance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature, indicating that it's a standard way to express a notable deviation from a general rule.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

40%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "key exception" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to denote a significant deviation from a general rule. According to Ludwig AI, it is perfectly acceptable in written English. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, notably in news, media, and scientific publications. While alternative phrases like "significant exemption" or "notable exclusion" can be used, "key exception" effectively emphasizes the importance of the exception. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly define the rule and the specific circumstances of the exception to maintain clarity and avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notable exclusion

Replaces "exception" with "exclusion", emphasizing the act of leaving something out.

significant exemption

Substitutes "exception" with "exemption", highlighting the aspect of being freed from a rule or obligation.

important qualification

Uses "qualification" instead of "exception", focusing on a condition that limits the applicability of a statement.

crucial divergence

Replaces "exception" with "divergence", emphasizing a deviation from a norm or pattern.

primary deviation

Uses "deviation" to indicate a departure from the standard or expected.

major departure

Emphasizes the act of moving away from a general rule or practice.

principal anomaly

Substitutes "exception" with "anomaly", highlighting something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

main divergence

Similar to "crucial divergence" but with a slightly less formal tone.

central inconsistency

Focuses on the lack of alignment with a standard or expected pattern.

vital modification

Highlights the necessity of altering a general rule in specific cases.

FAQs

How to use "key exception" in a sentence?

The phrase "key exception" is used to highlight a significant exception to a general rule or principle. For example, "Most students are required to attend all classes; however, a "key exception" is made for students with documented medical conditions".

What can I say instead of "key exception"?

You can use alternatives like "significant exemption", "notable exclusion", or "important qualification" depending on the context. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the exception.

Which is correct, "key exception" or "main exception"?

Both "key exception" and "main exception" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Key exception" emphasizes the importance or significance of the exception, while "main exception" highlights that it is the primary one.

What's the difference between "key exception" and "general exception"?

A ""key exception"" signifies a particularly important or noteworthy exception. A "general exception" refers to a more common or widely applicable exception.