exempt
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪɡˈzɛmpt/
KK: /ɪɡˈzɛmpt/
adjective
Definition
Not required to do something that others must do; free from a duty or obligation.
Example
Students who excel in their studies may be exempt from taking certain exams.
Conversation
Did you hear that some students are exempt from the final exams this year?
Really? I wonder how they qualify for that.
I think it’s based on their overall grades or attendance.
That makes sense; I wish I could be exempt too!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
excluded
immune
free
Antonyms
liable
subject
obligated
noun
Definition
A person who is freed from a duty or obligation that others must fulfill.
Example
The student was an exempt from the final exam due to his illness.
Conversation
Did you hear that Mark is an exempt from the group project?
Really? I didn't know he could do that.
Yeah, he had a good reason and got approved for it.
transitive verb
Definition
To free someone or something from a duty or obligation that others must follow.
Example
The new law will exempt low-income families from paying certain taxes.
Tense Forms
Past: exempted
Past Participle: exempted
Conversation
Did you hear that some students are exempt from the final exams?
Really? That sounds lucky for them!
Yeah, I think it's for those with special circumstances.
Root Explanation
Exempt is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "emere" (meaning to take). The word describes the act of being taken out of a requirement or obligation, thus not subject to it.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'taken out of' ('ex-') a duty or requirement, which is why exempt means you are not required to do something.
Visually Confused Words
unexempt
except
nonexempt
empt