special pleading
Say it: SPESH-ul PLEE-ding /ˌspɛʃ(ə)l ˈpliːdɪŋ/ · noun
What “special pleading” means
Demanding an unfair exception to a rule you apply to others.
More precisely: Applying a rule to others but claiming an exception for yourself without good reason.
Example: “'Phones off at dinner — except mine, I'm expecting a call' is special pleading.”
When to use it
When challenging arguments where someone demands consistent rules for everyone else but excuses their own case without good reason.
Similar words
double standard, self-serving exception
Quick check
You insist everyone must queue, then claim you should go first simply because you're in a hurry. That's…
special pleading or a reasonable exception?
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special pleading
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