Loophole
ˈluːphəʊl
Definitions
An ambiguity or omission in a law, regulation, or contract that allows the evasion of the intent or letter of the law.
ˈluːphəʊl
A technicality or ambiguity that allows someone to avoid a rule or law.
The company discovered a loophole in the environmental regulations that allowed them to release pollutants.
💡 Simply: Think of a loophole like a secret escape route in a game! It's a way around a rule that someone can use, like a shortcut. For example, a tax loophole lets a company pay less taxes than they should.
👶 For kids: A loophole is like a little secret door that lets someone get out of following the rules.
More Examples
Lawmakers are trying to close the tax loopholes that benefit the wealthy.
They found a loophole that enabled them to bypass the security protocols.
How It's Used
"The company exploited a tax loophole to reduce its tax obligations."
"They found a loophole in the contract that allowed them to get out of the deal."
Idioms & expressions
exploit a loophole
To use a legal or technical flaw to one's advantage.
"The company exploited a loophole in the tax code to avoid paying taxes."
close a loophole
To eliminate or fix a loophole in a law, regulation, or system.
"The government is trying to close the loopholes in the banking regulations."
From 'loop' (a small opening) and 'hole', likely referring to small openings in fortifications for observation or defense, later extended metaphorically to legal or procedural gaps.
The term 'loophole' has been used metaphorically since the 17th century, initially referencing the escape from a difficult situation or restriction.
Memory tip
Imagine a small loop that you can squeeze through to escape a larger problem or rule.