The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

exempt

IPA:

Dictionary definition of exempt

Excluded or immune from a particular obligation, requirement, or rule that others are subject to.
"Religious institutions are often exempt from property taxes."

Detailed meaning of exempt

When an entity or individual is exempt, they are granted special privileges or are freed from certain responsibilities that would typically apply. This exemption can arise due to legal provisions, specific circumstances, or designated statuses. For instance, certain tax-exempt organizations are not required to pay taxes, while diplomatic personnel may be exempt from certain local laws. Being exempt often implies a distinctive status that sets the exempted subject apart from others by relieving them of a particular burden or obligation.

Example sentences containing exempt

1. Veterans are often exempt from certain taxation.
2. Children under five are exempt from the entrance fee.
3. Diplomats are usually exempt from local laws.
4. Some foods are exempt from sales tax.
5. She was exempt from the mandatory training.
6. Disabled individuals may be exempt from jury duty.

History and etymology of exempt

The adjective 'exempt' has its origins in Latin and Old French. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'eximere,' which is a combination of 'ex,' meaning 'out of' or 'away from,' and 'emere,' meaning 'to take' or 'to obtain.' Originally, 'eximere' meant to take out or remove something from a larger group or category. This notion of removal or exclusion is key to the etymology of 'exempt.' As the word transitioned through Old French and into English, it retained its fundamental sense of being excluded or immune from a particular obligation, requirement, or rule that others are subject to. Thus, the etymology of 'exempt' underscores its historical association with exemption from certain responsibilities or regulations.

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Further usage examples of exempt

1. The CEO was exempt from the company's dress code.
2. Students with perfect attendance are exempt from the final exam.
3. Certain medications are exempt from prescription requirements.
4. Employees with medical conditions can be exempt from overtime.
5. Members of the royal family are typically exempt from military service.
6. Charitable organizations are often exempt from income taxes.
7. Public officials may be exempt from disclosure requirements.
8. Religious institutions are usually exempt from property taxes.
9. Small businesses with low income can be exempt from fees.
10. Pregnant women may be exempt from physical fitness tests.
11. Some vehicles are exempt from emissions regulations.
12. Non-profit organizations are often exempt from certain regulations.
13. Individuals with certain disabilities are exempt from jury duty.
14. Senior citizens are often exempt from parking fees.
15. Donors may be exempt from gift tax up to a certain amount.
16. Tax-exempt bonds provide financing for public projects.
17. Certain investments can be exempt from capital gains tax.
18. Foreign diplomats are typically exempt from customs duties.
19. Some students are exempt from taking certain exams.
20. Essential workers were exempt from the lockdown.
21. Volunteers are often exempt from membership fees.
22. Native species are often exempt from hunting regulations.
23. Farmers may be exempt from land use restrictions.
24. Special-needs students may be exempt from standardized tests.