UsingEnglish.com

Grandfather clause meaning

What does the saying 'Grandfather clause' mean?

Idiom: Grandfather clause

Meaning:

An existing condition, usually in a contract or other agreement, that cannot be changed, even if the conditions are changed for others.

Country: International English | Subject Area: Men & women | Usage Type: Both or All Words Used
All idioms have been editorially reviewed, and submitted idioms may have been edited for correctness and completeness.
« Previous: Grain of salt
Next: Grasp the nettle »

Idiom eBooks from UsingEnglish.com

Download our curated lists of idioms in PDF format - perfect to use offline for reference or for use in class!

If you have a question about idioms, ask us about it in our Idioms Discussion Forum.

If you know of an idiom that you would like to be listed here, please use our online form to suggest an idiom.

See also:


Trustpilot