Definition
破例 (pò lì) means 'to make an exception' — it is a verb describing the deliberate act of breaking a usual rule or routine. In contrast, 例外 (lì wài) is primarily a noun meaning 'an exception' (the exception itself), though it can also be used as a verb. Use 破例 when focusing on the action of granting an exception, and 例外 when referring to the exception as a concept.
verb
to make an exception
Easily confused
- 破裂pò lièlook-alike(of objects) to burst, to rupture
- 魄力pò lìsound-alikedecisiveness, boldness (the ability to act decisively and take initiative)
Examples
- ，破例。Tā píngshí hěn yángé, jīntiān què pò lì le.He is usually very strict, but today he made an exception.
- 破例？Nǐ néng wèi wǒ pò lì yí cì ma?Can you make an exception for me once?
- 破例，。Lǎoshī pò lì, ràng wǒ zài kǎo yí cì.The teacher made an exception and let me take the test again.
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