except
I like all fruits except bananas.
This means I like every fruit except bananas.
Not including someone or something; excluding
Everyone was invited except John.
John was the only person not invited.
The rule applies to all except minors.
Minors are not subject to this rule.
Often used with 'all' or 'every' to specify exclusions.
Unless; if not
I'll go except if it rains.
I'll go unless it rains.
He agreed to help except for one condition.
He agreed to help unless one condition was met.
Less common usage, often interchangeable with 'unless'.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Preposition vs. Conjunction
'Except' can be a preposition (following a noun) or a conjunction (introducing a clause).
Gold Rule
Common Usage
Often used with 'all' or 'every' to specify exclusions.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'excepten', from Latin 'exceptus', past participle of 'excipere' (to take out, exclude).
Usage Notes
Can function as a preposition or conjunction. As a preposition, it follows a noun or pronoun. As a conjunction, it introduces a clause.