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except that
/ɪkˈsɛpt ðæt/
but with the exception
She would go to the party, except that she has to work late.
She would go, but she has a work conflict.
formal
used to introduce a contrast or exception to a previous statement
I like all fruits, except that I don’t eat bananas.
I like most fruits, but I avoid bananas.
The plan was perfect, except that it lacked funding.
The plan was otherwise good, but money was an issue.
Commonly used in formal and written English to introduce a qualifying exception.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid redundancy
Do not use 'except that' when 'except' alone suffices (e.g., 'I like all fruits except bananas' is sufficient). Reserve 'except that' for introducing a clause with additional detail.
Gold Rule
Use with clauses
'Except that' must be followed by a full clause (subject + verb), unlike 'except for' which can be followed by a noun or noun phrase.
Word Origin
From Latin 'exceptus' (past participle of 'excipere' meaning 'to take out') + Old English 'þæt' (that). The phrase evolved in Middle English as a way to introduce exceptions in logical or factual statements.
Usage Notes
This phrase is slightly more formal than alternatives like 'but' or 'however'. It is often used in writing or speech to refine a previous assertion with a specific exception.
Word Breakdown
except
excluding or not including
prepositionthat
introduces a clause providing additional information
conjunctionEnglish Dictionary