English Explanatory Dictionary

exception that proves the rule

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The rare occurrence of a counterexample to a rule, used to demonstrate that the rule exists.

Pronunciation

en-au-exception that proves the rule.ogg

Word forms

exception that proves the rule exceptions that prove the rule exceptions that prove rules

Etymology

Derived from the medieval Latin legal principle "exceptio probat regulam in casibus non exceptis" ("the exception tests the rule in the cases not excepted").

Related words

exception proves the rule the exception proves the rule every law has its loophole honor in the breach more honored in the breach the proof of the pudding is in the eating
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