Loophole: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
loophole
[ หluหphoสl ]
legal context
A loophole refers to a gap or ambiguity in a legal code or document that allows individuals or entities to evade the intent of the law. These gaps can be unintentional oversights made during the drafting process, or they may be deliberately exploited by those who seek to benefit from the shortcomings of a law. Loopholes can apply to various areas, including taxation, regulations, and contracts. They are often seen as frustrating aspects of legal systems, as they can lead to exploitation and unfair advantages.
Synonyms
ambiguity, escape clause, gap, technicality
Examples of usage
- He found a loophole in the tax code.
- The company used a legal loophole to avoid fines.
- She exploited a loophole in the contract.
- Public outcry followed the discovery of the loophole.
Translations
Translations of the word "loophole" in other languages:
๐ต๐น brecha
- lacuna
- falha
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฆเคฐเคพเคฐ
- เคเคพเคฎเฅ
- เคเฅเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Schlupfloch
๐ฎ๐ฉ celah
๐บ๐ฆ ะปะฐะทัะฒะบะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ luka
๐ฏ๐ต ๆใ็ฉด
๐ซ๐ท รฉchappatoire
๐ช๐ธ laguna
๐น๐ท boลluk
๐ฐ๐ท ๋น ์ ธ๋๊ฐ ๊ตฌ๋ฉ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุซุบุฑุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ mezera
๐ธ๐ฐ medzera
๐จ๐ณ ๆผๆด
๐ธ๐ฎ vrzel
๐ฎ๐ธ glufa
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะฐาฃัะปะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแ แแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ boลluq
๐ฒ๐ฝ laguna
Word origin
The word 'loophole' has its origins in the Middle English term 'loup,' which means an opening, and the Old English 'lลซpan,' which means to leap or to jump. Historically, a 'loophole' referred to an opening in a wall or fortification that allowed archers to shoot while remaining protected. This defensive architecture evolved into the legal terminology we use today. By the late 19th century, the term began to be applied metaphorically to describe gaps in laws or rules that enabled individuals to circumvent restrictions or obligations. Its usage reflects the intersection of language, law, and strategy, highlighting how people may seek to exploit imperfections for personal gain.