escape clause

American  

noun

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

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escape clause British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of escape clause

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Through the Maastricht escape clause, countries can increase defense spending by up to 1.5% of GDP per year, amounting to as much as €500 billion in aggregate.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 17, 2026

The agreement intended to bind the Athletics to Las Vegas provides the team with an unusual escape clause: If ever a tax is aimed at the A’s, the team can leave town without penalty.

From Los Angeles Times • May 24, 2024

It did have an escape clause that allowed the US to nix the deal if Afghan peace talks failed.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2024

There was only one problem: The deal spanned 12 years and had no escape clause late in the term, according to a source.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 5, 2023

I bet she wishes she had written an escape clause into the prenup.

From "Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson