exemption

[ig-zemp-shuhn]

noun

1. the circumstances of a taxpayer, such as their age or number of dependents, that allow them to make certain deductions from taxable income.

2. the act of exempting.

3. the state of being exempted; immunity.

   Synonyms: exception
   Antonyms: liability

Other Word Forms

• exemptive adjective
• nonexemption noun
• preexemption noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of exemption¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; late Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin exemptiōn- (stem of exemptiō ) “removal.” See exempt, -ion

Synonym Study

Exemption, immunity, impunity imply special privilege or freedom from imposed requirements. Exemption implies release or privileged freedom from some duty, tax, etc.: exemption from military service. Immunity implies freedom from a penalty or from some liability, especially one that is disagreeable or threatening: immunity from disease. Impunity (limited mainly to the fixed expression with impunity ) primarily suggests freedom from punishment: The police force was so inadequate that crimes could be committed with impunity.

Example Sentences

The deal included a three-year exemption on social security paid by Indian employees working in the UK on short-term visas.

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Its savings from its tariff exemptions will probably outpace its revenue and profit reductions from price cuts.

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Announcing the proposed dates for what it called Bluebird K7 - The Festival, organisers said they had applied for an exemption to the waterway's 10mph speed limit.

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The Tories argue they can reduce the bill by reviewing exemptions for the Household Benefit Cap, limiting the VAT subsidy for Motability - which allows claimants to lease vehicles - and changing obligations for job-seekers.

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Still, some properties would be eligible for exemptions or a multi-year delay.

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Related Words

• discharge 
• dispensation 
• exception 
• immunity 
• privilege