exception exception /ɪkˈsɛpʃən/

noun

1. () A deliberate act of omission  ( elision , exclusion , exception )
   a deliberate act of omission
    With the exception of the children, everyone was told the news
   with the exception of the children, everyone was told the news
   
2. () An instance that does not conform to a rule or generalization  ( exception )
   an instance that does not conform to a rule or generalization
    All her children were brilliant; the only exception was her last child
   all her children were brilliant; the only exception was her last child
    An exception tests the rule
   an exception tests the rule
   
3. Grounds for adverse criticism  ( exception )
   grounds for adverse criticism
    His authority is beyond exception
   his authority is beyond exception