prove an exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prove an exception" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to convey the idea of demonstrating that something is an exception to a rule or norm, but the wording is awkward. Example: "In this case, we need to prove an exception to the general rule regarding late submissions."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Reliance may prove an exception.

The Economist

This is unlikely to prove an exception.

The Economist

Dots, though, may prove an exception.

The Economist

This year may prove an exception, though.

The New Yorker

Yellen is unlikely to prove an exception.

The New Yorker

Will Haysbert prove an exception to the rule?

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Here again Ashbery proved an exception.

The New York Times - Books

The last few decades have proved an exception, however.

The New York Times - Magazine

But this proved an exception rather than the rule.

The New York Times - Arts

The most striking work on display, however, proves an exception.

The Economist

Usually that is true, though Manny Pacquiao has proved an exception.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, avoid the construction "prove an exception" as it can be perceived as grammatically awkward. Opt for more precise language.

Common error

Avoid using "prove an exception" in formal writing. While understandable, it deviates from standard English and can make your writing sound less polished. Choose alternatives like "demonstrate an exception" or "establish an exception" to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prove an exception" functions as a predicate, expressing the idea that something is showing itself to be an exception to a general rule or expectation. Ludwig AI states the phrase is not correct in standard written English. This suggests the phrase is grammatically awkward, even if understandable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prove an exception" aims to express that something is demonstrating itself to be a deviation from the norm. However, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect in standard written English. While the phrase appears in various contexts, including news and scientific publications, it's generally advisable to use more precise and grammatically sound alternatives like "demonstrate an exception" or "establish an exception", especially in formal writing. These alternatives offer greater clarity and polish, ensuring your message is conveyed effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate an exception

Replaces "prove" with "demonstrate" for a more formal and precise tone.

establish an exception

Uses "establish" to emphasize the act of creating or recognizing an exception.

show oneself to be an exception

Adds "oneself to be" to clarify that someone or something is acting as the exception.

turn out to be an exception

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of being an exception.

prove to be the exception

Corrects the grammar by adding "to be the" for better flow and clarity.

serve as an exception

Suggests the exception functions as a model or instance.

be an exception

Simplifies the phrase to its core meaning, focusing on the state of being an exception.

constitute an exception

Indicates the exception makes up a distinct case.

form an exception

Implies the exception is part of a group or system.

represent an exception

Indicates that the exception exemplifies a deviation from the norm.

FAQs

What does "prove an exception" mean?

The phrase "prove an exception" is intended to convey that something is demonstrating itself to be an exception to a general rule or expectation. However, it is grammatically awkward. Better alternatives include "demonstrate an exception" or "establish an exception".

How can I use "prove an exception" in a sentence?

While the phrase "prove an exception" isn't ideal, it might appear in contexts where something is unexpectedly deviating from a norm. For example: "This case might prove an exception to the usual policy." However, it's more precise to say, "This case might "demonstrate an exception" to the usual policy."

What can I say instead of "prove an exception"?

You can use alternatives like "demonstrate an exception", "establish an exception", or "turn out to be an exception" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "prove an exception" or "prove to be an exception"?

"Prove to be an exception" is grammatically better than "prove an exception". However, "demonstrate an exception" or "establish an exception" are even more precise and standard.