Exception Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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exception
[ɪkˈsɛpʃən ]
Definitions
handling errors
An exception is an event, which occurs during the execution of a program, that disrupts the normal flow of the program's instructions. It is usually caused by errors in the code or unexpected conditions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exception |
An exception typically occurs in software development when something unexpected happens during the execution of a program, usually due to an illegal operation or an unforeseen condition.
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| error |
An error is a more general term that can refer to mistakes in software code, logical issues, or failures in hardware or network systems. It often indicates something that went wrong and needs to be fixed.
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| issue |
An issue is usually less severe than an error or a problem and can refer to a general concern or topic that needs to be addressed. It doesn't necessarily prevent the system from working but can indicate potential areas for improvement.
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| problem |
A problem is a condition or situation that is difficult to deal with and needs to be solved. This term can be used in a broader context, beyond just technology, to describe challenging situations.
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Examples of usage
- Try to catch the exception before it crashes the program.
- When an exception is thrown, the program jumps to the nearest exception handler.
- The exception was caused by a division by zero error.
unusual occurrence
An exception can also refer to something that is not part of the general rule or standard. It is an unusual or exceptional case.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exception |
Use this word when referring to something that does not follow a rule or general pattern. It's often used in everyday language and can imply something special or unusual.
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| deviation |
Use 'deviation' when referring to a change or difference from a regular path, function, or norm. It is often used in technical, mathematical, or statistical contexts.
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| anomaly |
This term is more formal and scientific. It is used when discussing something that significantly differs from what is standard, normal, or expected.
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| outlier |
This term is best used in statistical or analytical contexts, referring to data points significantly different from others in a dataset. It often implies the data point may be disregarded in analysis.
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Examples of usage
- She is an exception to the usual pattern of behavior.
- In this case, we will make an exception to the rule.
- The company made an exception for their most loyal customers.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In legal terms, an exception may refer to a specific case or situation that does not follow the general rule of law.
- Exceptions are crucial in contracts, where specific conditions can override standard terms.
- The concept of exceptions helps clarify rights and responsibilities, as individuals or entities can challenge general rules.
Mathematics
- Mathematics often uses the term exception when discussing properties that apply to most numbers, like even and odd numbers, but not all.
- In set theory, an exception can define a subset that behaves differently than the rest of the group.
- Logical statements frequently include exceptions to indicate when a particular case does not fit expected outcomes.
Pop Culture
- Many movies and books are about characters who are exceptions to societal norms, often depicting their journeys as fascinating.
- The term is commonly used in programming, where exceptions refer to errors or unexpected events that need special handling.
- Songs and stories often celebrate the idea of being an exception, highlighting individuality and unique contributions.
Psychology
- In psychology, exceptions in behavior can indicate underlying issues or particular strengths in individuals.
- The concept of cognitive exceptions plays a role in how people categorize information and form stereotypes.
- Some exceptions may reveal societal biases, where certain behaviors are accepted for one group but not for another.
Origin of 'exception'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'exceptio', which means 'a taking out,' reflecting how exceptions are different from the norm.
- In Middle English, it was used to describe things that were excluded from a general rule.
- The root 'cept' in exception relates to 'to take' or 'to seize,' linking back to the idea of taking something out from a group.
The word 'exception' originated from the Latin word 'exceptio', which means 'a speaking out'. Over time, it evolved to include the sense of 'making an exception' or 'excluding something'. The concept of exceptions in programming languages also contributed to the modern usage of the term.
See also: except, exceptional, exceptionality.