free pass
Noun
Meaning
A document entitling the bearer to free transportation.
(figuratively) An exemption from normal processes.
Synonyms: exemption, get out of jail free card, immunity
(baseball) An intentional walk.
Smith was issued a free pass after Jones' double.
Synonyms
Examples
Stop saying no offense,” I said, "when you say offensive things. It's not a free pass.
I always felt that acting was an escape, like having the secret key to every door and permission to go into any realm and soak it up. I enjoy that free pass.
Multiculturalism should not mean that we tolerate another culture's intolerance. If we do in fact support diversity, women's rights, and gay rights, then we cannot in good conscience give Islam a free pass on the grounds of multicultural sensitivity.
In America, we debate everything except capitalism. If there's an institution in your society that's above criticism, you're giving it a free pass to indulge all of its weaknesses and darker tendencies.
I do not think athletes should get a free pass. I don't think we should train our children and future athletes to believe that they are above the law and morality.
The phrase 'misuse of privilege' is becoming a free pass to tear apart pretty much anybody we choose to. It's becoming a devalued term, and it's making us lose our capacity for empathy and for distinguishing between serious and unserious transgressions.