exception
C1Formal to Neutral
Definition
Meaning
A case or instance that does not follow a general rule, pattern, or expectation; something excluded from a statement, rule, or group.
An objection or disagreement, especially a formal legal objection. In programming, an event that disrupts the normal flow of a program's instructions.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The core sense implies deviation from a norm. The legal sense 'take exception to' means to object. 'The exception proves the rule' is a common but often misunderstood idiom meaning that an exception tests the validity of a rule.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal differences in core meaning. The phrase 'with the exception of' is slightly more formal and frequent in British English. In informal contexts, British English might use 'bar' more readily (e.g., 'Everyone was there, bar John').
Connotations
Similar connotations in both varieties. The legal and programming contexts are universal.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American legal and business contexts (e.g., 'no exceptions').
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
be an exception to [NP]make an exception for [NP]take exception to [NP/V-ing]with the exception of [NP]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The exception that proves the rule”
- “Take exception to something”
- “Make an exception”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
"We cannot make an exception to our refund policy, as it would set a precedent."
Academic
"The data point was a significant outlier and was treated as a statistical exception."
Everyday
"I don't usually drink coffee in the evening, but I'll make an exception tonight."
Technical
"The try-catch block is used to handle a runtime exception in the code."
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The rule exceptions certain historical artefacts from export restrictions.
American English
- The software is designed to exception specific error types gracefully.
adverb
British English
- The team performed exceptionally well under pressure.
American English
- The product is exceptionally durable for its price point.
adjective
British English
- The circumstances were quite exceptional, warranting special consideration.
American English
- She demonstrated exceptional skill in the negotiation.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My sister is an exception. She doesn't like chocolate.
- Everyone passed the test, with one exception.
- The museum is open every day with the exception of Mondays.
- I don't normally lend money, but I'll make an exception for you.
- The judge took exception to the lawyer's disrespectful tone in court.
- There are a few notable exceptions to this general economic trend.
- The researcher argued that this anomalous result was not merely an exception but a refutation of the hypothesis.
- The contract includes a force majeure clause to account for exceptional circumstances.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of EXCEPT-ion: It's what you take OUT (except) from the general rule or group.
Conceptual Metaphor
RULES ARE CONTAINERS (exceptions are things outside the container); NORMS ARE PATHS (exceptions are deviations from the path).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating 'exception' directly as 'исключение' in the phrase 'take exception to', which means 'возражать/обижаться'.
- The phrase 'with the exception of' is a fixed prepositional phrase; don't translate 'with' literally.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'exception' as a countable noun without an article (e.g., 'He is exception' instead of 'He is an exception').
- Confusing 'exception' with 'exemption' (an official exclusion from a rule or duty).
Practice
Quiz
What does the idiom 'the exception that proves the rule' most accurately imply?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the standard preposition is 'to'. The correct phrase is 'an exception to the rule'.
An 'exception' is a case not covered by a general statement. An 'exemption' is a formal or official exclusion from a requirement, rule, or duty (e.g., a tax exemption).
Rarely in everyday language. The technical verb 'to exception' is used in computing (to generate an exception) and law, but 'to make an exception' or 'to except' are far more common.
It means to object strongly to something or be offended by it. It does not mean to exclude something.
Collections
Part of a collection
Debate Vocabulary
B2 · 48 words · Language for constructing arguments and discussions.
Critical Thinking
C1 · 49 words · Vocabulary for structured logical reasoning and analysis.