small exception

USAGE SUMMARY

"small exception" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a minor issue or difference, or when referring to a minor allowance or exception within a particular context. For example: "The new policy requires that all employees take a mandatory break, with the small exception of those in customer service roles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But there was one small exception.

The Economist

All around the distillery, nothing had changed, with one small exception.

The New Yorker

Once they did, all the boys (grown and not) fell into line, with one small exception.

The New York Times

He upheld rules requiring improvements in the energy efficiency of domestic appliances (air conditioners being a small exception).

The Economist

Being a Muslim I'm only meant to worship God, but when it comes to her I have to make a small exception… Aisha Zia is 34.

The Guardian

With one small exception, this is the first time since the days after World War II that Japan has taken such a step.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

"It doesn't happen except through asbestos, with vanishingly small exceptions," Professor Childs said.

The New York Times

So their development is stalled and apart from some small exceptions, research ignores biological pest management.

The Guardian

"Our books are, with small exceptions, not instructional, not where-to-go.

The New York Times

With small exceptions, all power for public buildings and for public uses in Westchester and New York City comes from the plant.

The New York Times

These sites also offer generally good information, and are, with a few small exceptions, easy to use.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "small exception", ensure the primary rule or statement remains the focal point; the exception shouldn't overshadow the original idea.

Common error

Avoid using "small exception" when the exception is actually substantial or undermines the main point. A more significant qualification might be needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small exception" functions as a qualifier or modifier, refining a general statement by indicating a specific instance where it does not fully apply. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in written English. For instance, Ludwig provides examples from news articles and scientific papers.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small exception" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig. It serves to introduce nuance and precision by acknowledging minor deviations from general rules or statements. Its presence in diverse sources, predominantly within News & Media and Science, underscores its wide applicability. The linguistic analysis highlights its function as a qualifier with a neutral-to-formal register, suitable for varied professional and academic uses. Ludwig’s examples display this well.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor deviation

Emphasizes the act of diverging slightly from a norm or expectation.

slight modification

Focuses on the act of making a small change or adjustment.

tiny alteration

Highlights the minimal nature of the change.

limited case

Indicates a restricted instance or situation where something applies.

narrow instance

Suggests a specific and confined situation.

rare allowance

Implies an infrequent permission or concession.

infrequent case

Highlights how uncommon the exception is.

limited exemption

Emphasizes that this specific case is not included within all the others.

minor qualification

Highlights how the statement or claim is only partly true, or only true under certain conditions.

narrow exclusion

Implies that something is kept apart or not allowed, but just for some cases.

FAQs

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

Use "small exception" to indicate a minor deviation from a general rule or statement. For example: "The policy applies to all employees, with the "small exception" of senior management."

What are some alternatives to "small exception"?

Alternatives include "minor deviation", "slight modification", or "tiny alteration", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "small exception" or "minor exception"?

Both "small exception" and "minor exception" are acceptable and largely interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific tone you want to convey.

What is the difference between "small exception" and "general rule"?

A "general rule" is a broad statement that typically applies in most situations, while a "small exception" is a specific case where the rule does not apply. This adds nuance to your statements.