loophole
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈluːˌhoʊl/
KK: /ˈluːpoʊl/
noun
Definition
A way to avoid a rule or law, often because of a mistake or unclear wording in a document.
Example
The company found a loophole in the tax law that allowed them to pay less.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new law they passed?
Yeah, but I think there might be a loophole in it.
Really? How does that work?
Well, it seems like some companies can still avoid the rules by exploiting that loophole.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
escape
gap
omission
Antonyms
closure
obligation
compliance
verb
Definition
Not a valid English word.
Example
Not available.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new tax laws?
Yeah, I heard some people are trying to find a loophole to save money.
It's kind of wild how they always look for ways to loophole the system.
Root Explanation
Loophole → The word is formed from "loop" (from Old English *hlēapan*, meaning to leap or jump) and "hole" (from Old English *hol*, meaning an opening or hollow space). A loophole originally referred to an opening that allows one to leap or escape from a situation, often used in legal contexts to describe a way to evade rules or laws.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'loop' as a way to 'leap' through an 'opening' — that's why a loophole is a way to escape or evade rules.
Visually Confused Words
oophore