Words / C1

ig-ZEMPT/ɪɡˈzempt/

Exempt means free from a duty, payment, or rule that applies to others: exempt from the fee, tax-exempt. Free from is everyday; excused is close for a person let off a requirement. Exempt is also a verb (exempt someone from). Exemption is the noun. The pattern is exempt from. In speech, do not have to pay / not required is enough. Official. An exemption is a rule, not a favour you invent on the spot.

Meaning

Free from a duty, payment, or rule that applies to others (exempt from).

Examples

• “Students are exempt from the fee.”
• “Students are exempt from the fee if they receive the bursary.”
• “The clinic is exempt from the parking charge; visitors are not.”

Good to know

exempt from + duty/rule. Also a verb. Noun: exemption. Everyday: not required / let off. Official. Contrast: a one-off favour with no rule.

Near in meaning

excused

New