escape clause

noun

1. a provision in a contract that enables a party to terminate contractual obligations in specified circumstances.

escape clause

noun

1. a clause in a contract freeing one of the parties from his obligations in certain circumstances

Word History and Origins

Origin of escape clause¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Weird as the theory is, invoking “quantum physics” is not an escape clause from obeying physical laws.

From The Daily Beast

We are not neglecting the safeguards provided by peril points, an escape clause, or the National Security Amendment.

From Project Gutenberg