# exempt

/ɪɡˈzɛmpt/ (US) · /ɛɡzˈɛmpt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exempt
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. free from a duty

adjective · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. to release from a rule

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to give someone permission not to do or pay something.

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

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

### 3. a person who is excused

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal · Technical

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

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

- The tax office keeps a list of all the exempts in this category.
- The report categorised the applicants into those who were fully liable and the few exempts who met the strict medical criteria.

## Examples

- The school will exempt students with high grades from the final exam.
- Small businesses are often exempt from certain taxes to help them grow during their first year.
- The new legislation seeks to exempt non-profit organizations from the property tax hike, provided they can prove their services directly benefit the local community.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.