under exceptional circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

"under exceptional circumstances" is a correct and usable phrasing in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where something unusual has happened or made possible. For example: "Under exceptional circumstances, the university may allow a student to take an extra course."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Validated assaults of dogs and cats are non-existent, except under exceptional circumstances.

Independent

Oxford University does not allow students to undertake part-time work during term time except under "exceptional circumstances".

Independent

It also proposes that asylum seekers no longer necessarily be granted the right to work, except under exceptional circumstances.

The Washington Post

Requests to organize an event will not be approved for pre-generals students except under exceptional circumstances.

Princeton University

At Oxford University, "term-time employment is not permitted except under exceptional circumstances," and even in the holidays students are told to prioritise their studies.

The Guardian

For math majors, Math 401/501 and Math 431/531 should be taken at Duke except under exceptional circumstances with prior approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies.

Duke University

Campaigning by the judge, whose retention is being considered, is prohibited except under exceptional circumstances.

Huffington Post

Except under exceptional circumstances, NASA civil service employees are required to be citizens of the United States.

Wikipedia

Under exceptional circumstances.

Columbia University

Freshman only admitted under exceptional circumstances.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Only under exceptional circumstances and usually in the form of special legislation are contractual relations adjusted for the effects of severe economic dislocations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure the exceptional circumstances are clearly defined or easily understood within the context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "under exceptional circumstances" as a vague justification for inconsistent actions. Always specify what those circumstances are to maintain transparency and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under exceptional circumstances" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the conditions under which an action or event may occur. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

28%

Science

23%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under exceptional circumstances" is a commonly used and grammatically correct prepositional phrase that indicates a deviation from the norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe scenarios where standard rules or procedures do not apply. It appears most frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly define what constitutes the exceptional circumstances to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "in extraordinary cases" and "in unusual situations". Proper usage helps maintain clarity and transparency in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in extraordinary cases

Focuses on the rarity and unusual nature of the situation.

in unusual situations

Emphasizes the atypical nature of the circumstances.

when circumstances are extraordinary

Highlights that the circumstances themselves are what makes the situation exceptional.

given extraordinary conditions

Similar to "under exceptional circumstances" but puts the emphasis on pre-existing conditions

subject to special conditions

Implies that specific, unusual conditions must be met.

in particular instances

Highlights a certain instance/moment in time

under unforeseen conditions

Focuses on the aspect of not being able to anticipate or predict the circumstances.

on rare occasions

Focuses primarily on how infrequent the situation happens.

if the situation warrants it

Focuses on the justification or reason for deviating from the norm.

when all other options are exhausted

Focuses on how only after no other solutions were found this one can be used.

FAQs

How can I use "under exceptional circumstances" in a sentence?

Use "under exceptional circumstances" to introduce a situation where a standard rule or procedure is not followed. For example: "Requests for late registration under exceptional circumstances on or after this date require Registrar's approval".

What phrases are similar to "under exceptional circumstances"?

Similar phrases include "in extraordinary cases", "in unusual situations", or "on rare occasions". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "under exceptional circumstances"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation that deviates from the norm and requires special consideration. Ensure the specific circumstances are either explicitly stated or clearly implied.

What's the difference between "under exceptional circumstances" and "in special cases"?

"Under exceptional circumstances" typically implies a greater degree of deviation from the norm compared to "in special cases". Exceptional circumstances suggest something truly rare and unusual, while special cases might cover more frequent, though still non-standard, situations.