escape clause

escape clause

A contract includes an escape clause for unforeseen circumstances.

Definition

Noun: - A contract provision: An "escape clause" is a specific term or condition in a legal agreement that allows one or more parties to avoid their obligations under the contract under certain circumstances, without being in breach of the agreement.

Usage Examples
  • (A provision that permits cancellation under a specific condition.)
  • (She used the contract term to end her obligation legally.)
Advanced Usage
  • "to trigger an escape clause": to activate the provision that allows for withdrawal or avoidance of obligations.

    • The company triggered the escape clause when the supplier failed to meet the deadline. (They used the contractual term to exit the agreement.)
  • "to draft an escape clause": to write or include such a provision in a contract.

    • The lawyer carefully drafted an escape clause to protect the client from unforeseen costs. (The lawyer wrote a protective term into the agreement.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Escape (n, v): the act of getting free from confinement or control.

    • The prisoner made an escape from the jail. (The act of breaking free.)
  • Clause (n): a distinct section or provision in a legal document.

    • The contract has a clause about late payments. (A specific part of the agreement.)
Synonyms
  • Out clause: an informal term for a provision allowing one party to exit an agreement.
  • Release clause: a term that frees a party from obligations, often used in sports contracts.
Related Idioms
  • "A way out": a means of escaping a difficult situation or obligation.

    • The escape clause gave them a way out of the deal. (It provided a means to avoid the commitment.)
  • "A get-out-of-jail-free card": (informal) a provision that allows someone to avoid a penalty or responsibility.

    • This escape clause is like a get-out-of-jail-free card for the contractor. (It allows them to avoid their duties without penalty.)