special dispensation

Granted rule bypass

Special dispensation is permission to do something normally forbidden, or exemption from a rule that applies to others.

The phrase often carries religious or official overtones—historically, the Catholic Church granted dispensations allowing prohibited acts like marriage between cousins.

In casual use, it can be ironic: I don't get special dispensation just because I'm the boss's nephew.

exemptionRelease from requirement
waiverFormal surrender of rights
exceptionDeviation from standard
permissionGranted right to act
privilegeExclusive right or benefit

free pass · get out of jail free · pardon · indulgence · grace · act of grace · allowance · reprieve · absolution · loophole · hall pass · doctor's note · blessing · clemency · favor · authorization · immunity · leave

Opposites

rule application

special dispensationno exceptions

Universal application, none spared

zero tolerance · by the book · letter of the law · standard procedure

treatment type

special dispensationequal treatment

Uniform handling regardless of identity

level playing field · fair and square

obligation enforcement

special dispensationnon-negotiable

Cannot be altered

held to account

Family

special, dispensation, specialize, specialized, specialization, specialist, specialty, speciality, specially

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Rated G