except for vs but for

Both 'except for' and 'but for' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'Except for' is used to introduce an exception or exclusion, while 'but for' is used to indicate that if it were not for something, a different situation would exist.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 607 views

except for

The phrase 'except for' is correct and commonly used in English to introduce an exception or exclusion.

Use 'except for' to introduce something that is not included in a general statement or to indicate an exclusion. It is often used to show contrast or exception.

Examples:

I like all fruits except for bananas.
Everyone was invited to the party except for John.
I would have finished on time except for the traffic.
She knew all the answers except for the last one.
The store is open every day except for Sundays.

Alternatives:

apart from
other than
excluding
aside from
with the exception of

but for

The phrase 'but for' is correct and used to indicate that if it were not for something, a different situation would exist.

Use 'but for' to express a hypothetical situation where the absence of a particular factor would lead to a different outcome or result.

Examples:

I would have missed the train but for your help.
But for the rain, we would have had a picnic.
The team would have won the game but for the last-minute goal.
But for his quick thinking, the accident could have been much worse.
But for the noise, I could have heard the speaker clearly.

Alternatives:

if it were not for
were it not for
without
in the absence of
in the event of

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except for vs but for

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