exemption

[ig-zemp-shuhn]

noun

1. the circumstances of a taxpayer, such as their age or number of dependents, that allow them to make certain deductions from taxable income.

2. the act of exempting.

3. the state of being exempted; immunity.

   Synonyms: exception
   Antonyms: liability

Other Word Forms

• exemptive adjective
• nonexemption noun
• preexemption noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of exemption¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; late Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin exemptiōn- (stem of exemptiō ) “removal.” See exempt, -ion

Synonym Study

Exemption, immunity, impunity imply special privilege or freedom from imposed requirements. Exemption implies release or privileged freedom from some duty, tax, etc.: exemption from military service. Immunity implies freedom from a penalty or from some liability, especially one that is disagreeable or threatening: immunity from disease. Impunity (limited mainly to the fixed expression with impunity ) primarily suggests freedom from punishment: The police force was so inadequate that crimes could be committed with impunity.

Example Sentences

For instance, one major US seafood trade association has called for a tariff exemption, highlighting that the US seafood market is dominated by imports and American waters are already overfished.

From BBC

Oilfield Witness gathered all exemption requests since 2021, which showed the agency repeatedly approving permits that failed to comply with its guidelines.

From Salon

Mr Sadinsky also argues that allowing them to enter Canada would be in line with the Safe Third Country Agreement, which contains exemptions aimed at reuniting families.

From BBC

They also reported that some combat units were seeing lower turnout than for previous call-ups, with reservists who had already served several tours during the 22-month war requesting exemptions for personal or financial reasons.

From BBC

He cites the precedent of the exemption of the drug consumption room.

From BBC

Related Words

• discharge 
• dispensation 
• exception 
• immunity 
• privilege