What does "exempt" mean?

1. (free from a duty) not having to do something or pay something that is usually required. 2. (to release from a rule) to give someone permission not to do or pay something. 3. (a person who is excused) someone who does not have to follow a rule or pay a tax.

How do you use "exempt"?

usually followed by the preposition 'from'. takes a direct object and is followed by 'from'.

exempt

adj. · v. · n.

US //ɪɡˈzɛmpt// UK //ɛɡzˈɛmpt// ex·empt

1 free from a duty (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

not having to do something or pay something that is usually required.

free from an obligation, duty, or liability to which others are subject.

Example

Small businesses are often exempt from certain taxes to help them grow.

Example

Charitable organisations are typically exempt from property taxes, provided they can demonstrate that their activities serve a clear public benefit.

Usage

usually followed by the preposition 'from'.
- liable
- subject
2 to release from a rule (v.)
C1 Advanced Formal

to give someone permission not to do or pay something.

to free or permit a person or entity to remain free from a requirement or obligation.

Example

The school decided to exempt him from the final exam because of his high grades.

Example

The new legislation allows the minister to exempt specific industries from the carbon cap if they implement approved green technologies.

Usage

takes a direct object and is followed by 'from'.
- enforce
- require

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3 a person who is excused (n.)
C2 Proficiency Formal Technical

someone who does not have to follow a rule or pay a tax.

a person who has been released from an obligation or duty.

Example

The tax office keeps a list of all the exempts in this category.

Example

The report categorised the applicants into those who were fully liable and the few exempts who met the strict medical criteria.
- exception

Origin

From Middle French exempt, from Latin exemptus, past participle of eximō.