Exemptions

/ɪɡˈzɛmpʃənz/ noun

Definition

Official releases or exceptions from a rule, duty, or obligation that normally apply to everyone.

Etymology

From exempt (Latin eximere, 'to take out') plus the suffix -tion (indicating an action or condition). The word emerged in Middle English legal terminology.

Kelly Says

Exemptions reveal how societies actually work—laws are published as universal rules, but real life requires hundreds of exceptions. Religious exemptions, tax exemptions, and medical exemptions show that perfect equality is impossible.

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