exceptive
Definition
- Adjective:
- Making an exception: "exceptive" describes something that expresses, implies, or involves an exception; it is used to indicate that a rule or statement does not apply in a particular case.
- Tending to object or demur: In a less common sense, "exceptive" can refer to a person who is inclined to raise objections or disagree, often in a petty or argumentative way.
Usage Examples
Making an exception:
- The contract contained an exceptive clause that allowed for delays due to weather. (The clause specified a condition that was an exception to the general rule.)
- Her exceptive attitude meant she always found a reason to disagree with the group's plans. (She was prone to objecting or pointing out exceptions.)
Tending to object:
- He was known for his exceptive nature, frequently interrupting meetings with minor criticisms. (He habitually raised objections.)
Advanced Usage
- "exceptive proposition": In logic, a proposition that includes a term indicating an exception, such as "all except" or "none but."
- "All men except Socrates are mortal" is an exceptive proposition. (The statement explicitly excludes Socrates from the general claim.)
Variants and Related Words
- Exception (noun): a case or instance that does not follow a rule.
- Everyone passed the test, with the exception of one student. (One student did not pass.)
- Exceptional (adj): unusually good; outstanding (not directly related to "exceptive" but derived from the same root).
- She showed exceptional talent in music. (Her talent was remarkable.)
- Except (prep/conj): not including; other than.
- Everyone except John attended the meeting. (John was not present.)
Synonyms
- Exclusionary: serving to exclude or keep out.
- Exception-making: creating or allowing for exceptions.
- Objecting: expressing disapproval or opposition (for the second meaning).
Related Idioms
- The exception that proves the rule: an instance that, by being an exception, confirms that the rule is generally true.
- He arrived on time today, which is the exception that proves the rule that he is usually late. (His punctuality highlights his typical tardiness.)
- Take exception to: to object to or be offended by something.
- She took exception to his rude comment. (She found it objectionable.)