Definition except in British 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 a fool.

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

All the team were there except Eddie Stratton, who was ill.

Example

The shop is open every day 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's done 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 ought to have told the police, except they'd never have believed me.

Example

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