How to Pronounce "the exception proves the rule"
expression
thuh ik-SEP-shun PROOVZ thuh rool
thuh ek-SEP-shun proovz thuh rool
Definition
This expression means that noticing a rare exception actually helps to show that the normal rule usually applies.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ɪkˈsɛpʃən/ /ˈpɹuvz/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɹuɫ
British English
ðə, ði/ /ɛksˈɛpʃən/ /pɹˈuːvz/ /ðə, ði/ /ɹˈuːl
Simplified Pronunciation
US
thuh ik-SEP-shun PROOVZ thuh rool
UK
thuh ek-SEP-shun proovz thuh rool
Listen in Context
We are open every day except Sunday. The exception proves the rule.
Most children like ice cream, and when one doesn’t, the exception proves the rule.
Everyone must finish the test in one hour. If someone needs more time, the exception proves the rule.
Sarah never drinks coffee, but the exception proves the rule—she had one cup at the party last night.