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Exception that proves the rule — The exception [that] proves the rule is a frequently confused English idiom. The original meaning of this idiom is that the presence of an exception establishes that a general rule exists. Fowler s Modern English Usage identifies five ways in… … Wikipedia
exception that proves the rule — This expression is used by many to indicate that an exception in some way confirms a rule. Others say that the exception tests the rule. In its original legal sense, it meant that a rule could sometimes be inferred from an exemption or exception … The small dictionary of idiomes
(the) exception that proves the rule — the exception that proves the ˈrule idiom (saying) people say that sth is the exception that proves the rule when they are stating sth that seems to be different from the normal situation, but they mean that the normal situation remains true in… … Useful english dictionary
be the exception that proves the rule — if you say something is the exception that proves the rule, you mean that although it does not support the statement you have made, the statement is usually true. This woman is the exception that proves the rule that it is impossible to be a… … New idioms dictionary
the exception which proves the rule — Meaning The counter example that questions the validity of a rule. Origin This doesn t mean that a rule is proved to be correct by a counter example, which would be a logical nonsense. Proving here means testing the meaning being that the truth… … Meaning and origin of phrases
the exception proves the rule — ‘The very fact of an exception proves there must be a rule’ (Brewer); now frequently misunderstood and used to justify inconsistency. Cf. L. exceptio probat regulam in casibus non exceptis, the exception confirms the rule in cases not excepted.… … Proverbs new dictionary
exception proves the rule — Something unusual that does not follow a rule tests that rule to see if it is true; if there are too many exceptions, the rule is no good. A proverb. * /Frank is very short but is a good basketball player. He is the exception that proves the rule … Dictionary of American idioms
exception proves the rule — Something unusual that does not follow a rule tests that rule to see if it is true; if there are too many exceptions, the rule is no good. A proverb. * /Frank is very short but is a good basketball player. He is the exception that proves the rule … Dictionary of American idioms
exception\ proves\ the\ rule — proverb Something unusual that does not follow a rule tests that rule to see if it is true; if there are too many exceptions, the rule is no good. Frank is very short but is a good basketball player. He is the exception that proves the rule … Словарь американских идиом
exception proves the rule — If something is different from a general belief or theory, it shows that the belief or theory is true. Most teenagers love fast food, but Ben is the exception that proves the rule he s the only one of our children who insists on healthy… … English Idioms & idiomatic expressions
