Exception

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪkˈsɛpʃən/

Definitions

• Noun: A person or thing that is excluded from a general statement or does not follow a rule.
• Noun: A deviation or anomaly from a general rule, pattern, or expectation.

Usage Examples

• "The rule applies to everyone with the exception of senior staff."
• "There are few exceptions to this law."
• "He made an exception for her, allowing her to leave early."
• "The city has been exempt from the new regulations by special exception."

Etymology

Originates from the Late Middle English word "exceptioun," from Old French "exception," from Latin "exceptio," meaning "a taking out, a leaving out." The word is derived from "excipere," meaning "to take out," from "ex-" (out) and "capere" (to take).

Synonyms

• Exemption
• Exclusion
• Omission
• Deviance
• Outlier

Antonyms

• Inclusion
• Adherence
• Compliance
• Rule

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English: /ɪkˈsɛpʃən/
• In British English: /ɪkˈsɛpʃən/
• In Australian English: /ɪkˈsɛpʃən/

Historical Usage

The term "exception" has been used in English since the late 14th century, deriving from the Latin "exceptio" (a taking out). Historically, it was used in legal and formal contexts to denote exclusions from general rules or norms. Over time, it expanded into everyday language to refer to instances that do not follow the expected pattern or rule.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "exception" plays an important role in laws, contracts, and social norms, where certain individuals, actions, or conditions are exempted from general rules. In many cultures, exceptions highlight the flexibility or leniency of a rule or law, allowing for adjustments in specific situations. For example, the idea of "exceptions to the rule" is often used to explain cases where an established standard might not be strictly applied.

More Information

The word "exception" refers to something or someone that is excluded from a rule or pattern. It can be used to describe both tangible exclusions (like a law or rule) or more abstract ones (like a behavior or outcome). The concept of exceptions is integral to many legal systems, as well as social and cultural practices, as it allows flexibility in governance and societal expectations. In language, it can be used to describe deviations in situations, behavior, or outcomes that fall outside the established norm.