loophole

A gap or unclear point in a rule or law that lets someone avoid its intended effect.

• They found a loophole in the rules.
• The company used a tax loophole to save money.
• The new law closes several legal loopholes.

How to use it: loophole in something (There is a loophole in the contract.)

Similar words: gap, escape clause

Common phrases: a legal loophole, exploit a loophole, close a loophole, loophole in something

A narrow opening in a defensive wall through which people inside can shoot at attackers.

• The archer aimed through a loophole.
• Small loopholes lined the castle wall.
• Each loophole gave the defenders a clear view outside.

Similar words: arrow slit, embrasure

Common phrases: a narrow loophole, castle loophole, fire through a loophole

To make narrow openings in a building so people inside can shoot at attackers.

• The soldiers loopholed the walls.
• They loopholed the farmhouse before the attack.
• The officer ordered his men to loophole the outer building.

Common phrases: loophole a building, loophole the walls

To avoid a law or rule by taking advantage of gaps or unclear points in it.

• They tried to loophole the rules.
• His lawyer loopholed the regulation to avoid the fee.
• Companies cannot simply loophole every safety requirement.

Similar words: circumvent, get around

Common phrases: loophole a law, loophole the rules