rare exception

USAGE SUMMARY

'rare exception' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an instance or situation that is unusual, unexpected, or infrequent compared to the norm. For example, "The invention of the first steam engine was a rare exception in the history of technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Soccer is the rare exception.

The New York Times - Sports

Google is a rare exception.

The Guardian

But U-Shin seems the rare exception.

The New York Times

Mr Naidu is a rare exception.

The Economist

The Bryans were a rare exception.

The New Yorker

("Annie Hall" is a rare exception).

The New York Times

Pedro Miguel Schiaffino is a rare exception.

The New York Times - Travel

Ms. Pao might be that rare exception.

The New York Times

(Ms Mayer herself is a rare exception).

The Economist

The scepter is a rare exception.

The New York Times

"Lula" is a very rare exception.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rare exception", ensure the context clearly establishes the norm from which the exception deviates. This provides clarity and impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "rare exception" when the exception is actually quite common. Overusing it weakens its impact and undermines your credibility. Ensure the exception is genuinely infrequent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rare exception" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies a specific instance that deviates from a general rule or common occurrence. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rare exception" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote something unusual or infrequent compared to a norm. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides ample examples from diverse sources, mainly news and media. While synonyms like "uncommon occurrence" or "unusual instance" exist, "rare exception" maintains a strong emphasis on infrequency. When using it, ensure the context establishes a clear norm, and avoid overstating the exception's rarity to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

infrequent case

Focuses on the low frequency with which a particular situation arises.

unusual instance

Highlights the singularity and deviation from the norm of a specific case.

atypical example

Indicates that the example does not conform to the usual type.

uncommon occurrence

Emphasizes the infrequency of an event or situation.

uncommon phenomenon

Emphasizes the infrequency of a notable event.

isolated incident

Stresses the disconnection and lack of pattern in an event.

anomaly

Refers to a deviation from the common rule or type.

one-off

Denotes something done or happening only once.

oddity

Highlights the strange or peculiar nature of something.

singularity

Highlights the unique or distinctive nature of something, setting it apart from others.

FAQs

How can I use "rare exception" in a sentence?

Use "rare exception" to indicate something that deviates from the norm or is unusual. For instance, "In this company, ethical behavior is common, and corruption is a "rare exception"".

What are some alternatives to saying "rare exception"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "uncommon occurrence", "unusual instance", or "infrequent case".

Is it better to say "rare exception" or "uncommon exception"?

While both are acceptable, "rare exception" emphasizes the infrequency of the event more strongly than "uncommon exception". The choice depends on the level of emphasis you want to convey.

What's the difference between a "rare exception" and an "anomaly"?

A "rare exception" is an infrequent deviation from a general rule or norm. An "anomaly", on the other hand, is something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected but doesn't necessarily imply a rule.