Exception: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

• The program threw an exception because it tried to divide by zero

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.

• There was an error in the code that caused the application to crash

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.

• There are some issues with the user interface that we need to look into

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.

• The main problem we're facing is the network connectivity

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.

• Everyone needs to wear a uniform, but John is an exception because he has a medical condition.
• The weather is usually warm this time of year, but today is an exception.

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.

• The company's financial deviation raised concerns among the stakeholders.
• Standard deviation is a measure used in statistics to quantify the amount of variation.

This term is more formal and scientific. It is used when discussing something that significantly differs from what is standard, normal, or expected.

• The scientist noted an anomaly in the data that couldn't be explained.
• The sudden spike in temperatures was considered an anomaly.

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.

• The research identified a few outliers that skewed the overall results.
• Her test score was an outlier, significantly higher than everyone else's.