What does “Grandfather clause” mean?
"Grandfather clause" means a provision in a law or rule that allows certain people or things to be exempt from the law or rule because they were already in existence before it was implemented.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The new zoning regulations don't apply to existing buildings due to the grandfather clause.
Example
Under the grandfather clause, current employees are exempt from the new dress code policy.
Example
The grandfather clause allowed him to keep his outdated car without having to meet the new emission standards
Is “Grandfather clause” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Grandfather clause” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Grandfather clause” effectively in context?
You can use the "Grandfather Clause" to refer to a provision in a law or rule that exempts certain people or things from its requirements because they were already in existence before it was implemented. Here are three distinct situations where you can use the phrase effectively:
- 1Zoning Regulations
The new zoning regulations don't apply to existing buildings due to the grandfather clause.
- 2Workplace Policies
Under the grandfather clause, current employees are exempt from the new dress code policy.
- 3Vehicle Emission Standards
The grandfather clause allowed him to keep his outdated car without having to meet the new emission standards.
Similar phrases to “Grandfather clause”:
A special permission or privilege that exempts someone or something from a rule or requirement
Example
She was granted an exemption from the dress code due to her religious beliefs.
An official document or statement that allows someone to be exempt from a rule or requirement
Example
He obtained a waiver to skip the entrance exam for the advanced course.
Preexisting condition
A medical condition that existed before a particular date or event
Example
Her insurance policy covers treatment for preexisting conditions.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Grandfather clause” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Grandfather Clause" can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States. It was originally used in the context of voting rights laws that were implemented after the Civil War. These laws included requirements such as literacy tests and poll taxes, which disproportionately affected African Americans. However, the "grandfather clause" was added to these laws to exempt individuals whose grandfathers had been eligible to vote before the Civil War, effectively allowing white voters to bypass the new restrictions.
Is “Grandfather clause” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, the "Grandfather Clause" is a well-known expression in everyday conversation, especially in legal and policy discussions. It is commonly used to describe exemptions or exceptions in various contexts.
What tone does “Grandfather clause” have?
The "Grandfather Clause" conveys a neutral tone. It is often used in a factual manner to explain or discuss the exemption or exception provided by a law or rule.
Can “Grandfather clause” be used in informal and formal settings?
The "Grandfather Clause" is a formal expression that is typically used in legal, political, and policy-related contexts. It may not be commonly used in casual conversations, but it is widely understood in professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The "Grandfather Clause" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The new regulations don't apply to existing buildings due to the "grandfather clause".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'The "grandfather clause" exempts them from the new rules.'
