seek an exception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek an exception" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting a deviation from a rule, policy, or standard procedure. Example: "In special circumstances, we may seek an exception to the usual guidelines to accommodate unique situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Mrs. Mogel had good reason to seek an exception to the half-mile bus rule.

The New York Times

Swiss diplomats are negotiating in Brussels with the European Union to seek an exception for zebu intestines.

The New York Times

The reprieve gives Hobby Lobby more time to argue in a lower court that commercial businesses, not just religious groups, should be allowed to seek an exception.

The New York Times

But there are very few pediatric lungs available for transplantation, the rules for children to gain access to adult lungs are tight, and the grounds for doctors and patients to seek an exception are limited.

The New York Times

Shackles can still be used at those hearings, called master calendar hearings, but detainees can seek an exception for medical reasons.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Although suspensions against coaches and managers cannot be appealed, the Braves are seeking an exception.

The New York Times - Sports

Consumer Reports suggests seeking an exception, although it's unclear how often such requests are granted.

The New York Times

Both President Obama and former president George W. Bush have sought an exception for India.

The Washington Post

Students seeking an exception to the 3.0 GPA minimum should first consult with the CNR major advisor.

University of California, Berkeley

But the former guard, Daniel G. Negusie, has said he would have been executed had he tried to quit and seeks an exception to the law.

The New York Times

To be considered genuine parmesan, the cheese must be aged in the area, and producers are now seeking an exception to the rule as they rebuild their warehouses.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seek an exception", clearly state the specific rule you are seeking to deviate from and the reasons justifying the exception.

Common error

Avoid simply stating you "seek an exception" without providing a compelling rationale for why the standard rule should not apply in your particular case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek an exception" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of requesting a deviation from a rule or policy. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seek an exception" is a grammatically sound and semantically clear expression used to denote the act of requesting a deviation from a rule or policy. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not exceedingly common, it finds its place across diverse contexts, notably in news, academic, and business spheres. When employing this phrase, it's vital to provide clear justification for the requested deviation. Alternatives such as "request a waiver" or "apply for an exemption" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request a waiver

Focuses on the formal process of asking for a requirement to be set aside.

apply for an exemption

Highlights the application aspect of gaining freedom from a rule.

ask for a dispensation

Emphasizes the granting of special permission.

appeal for leniency

Suggests seeking a more forgiving application of a rule.

pursue a variance

Implies actively working to get an official alteration of a standard.

make a plea for special consideration

Highlights the act of asking for unique circumstances to be acknowledged.

petition for an allowance

Focuses on submitting a formal request for an exception.

look for a loophole

Suggests finding an ambiguity or inadequacy in the rules.

try to circumvent the rules

Implies attempting to avoid following the rules without directly asking.

maneuver around the regulations

Suggests skillful or strategic avoidance of rules.

FAQs

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

You can use "seek an exception" when requesting a deviation from a specific rule or policy. For example, "The company will "seek an exception" to the zoning laws to build a taller structure."

What's the difference between "seek an exception" and "request a waiver"?

While both phrases involve asking for special permission, "request a waiver" often implies a more formal or official procedure, typically in legal or contractual contexts. "Seek an exception" is a broader term that can apply in various situations.

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

You can use alternatives such as "apply for an exemption", "request a dispensation", or "appeal for leniency", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to "seek an exception"?

No, it's generally only appropriate to "seek an exception" when there are legitimate and justifiable reasons why the standard rule or policy should not apply. Abusing the option to "seek an exception" can undermine the integrity of the rule.