特例 tèlì special case
special case; isolated example
How to remember 特例: 特 special + 例 examples = special case.
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How it is used
- A special / exceptional case that doesn't follow the general rule - 这只是个特例 (zhè zhǐshì gè tèlì) this is just an exception.
- Used to flag something as not the norm; contrast 例子 (lìzi), a plain example, and 惯例 (guànlì), the usual practice.
- Common when declining to set a precedent: 不能开特例 (can't make an exception).