Definition except in American English

except conjunction, preposition

conjunction, preposition

/ɪkˈsept/

Except can be used in the following ways:

as a preposition (followed by a noun): We haven’t told anyone except Leslie’s dad.

as a conjunction (followed by a clause or adverbial phrase): I’d go and see him myself, except I don’t know where he lives.

before a conjunction such as “that,” “when,” or “if”: I don’t know much about the man, except that he’s an idiot.

in the prepositional phrase except for: Everything was perfect except for the weather.

used for introducing the only person, thing, or fact that is not included in your main statement

Example

The whole team was there, except Pete, who was sick.

Example

The store is open every day from 9:00 to 5:00, except on Sundays.

Example

Not a sound was heard except the wind howling.

Example

She was dressed all in black except for a white lace collar.

Example

Airline officials had nothing to tell us except that the flight had been delayed.

Example

I hardly ever get a chance to study, except when the children have gone to bed.

Example

He did nothing all day except sit around and watch television.

Synonyms and related words

only except excluding

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used for introducing a statement that makes what you have just said seem less true or less possible

Example

I would have told them the truth, except they wouldn't have believed me.

Example

I'd be glad to help, except that I'm going to be away this weekend.