a coined variation of (the) exception proves the rule, meaning something that is unusual that does not follow a rule tests that rule to see if it is true, often used to mean the exception establishes the rule. This is a shortened
form of a
phrase used in
law Exception proves the rule in the
cases not excepted-if a rule (or
law) does not
hold true in some
cases, it is only strengthened in the
cases for which it is true.