excepting

[ ik-sep-ting ]

preposition

1. excluding; barring; saving; with the exception of; except:

   Excepting the last chapter, the book is finished.

conjunction

1. Archaic. except; unless; save.

excepting

/ ɪkˈsɛptɪŋ /

preposition

1. excluding; except; except for (esp in the phrase not excepting )

conjunction

1. an archaic word for unless

Usage

The use of excepting is considered by many people to be acceptable only after not, only, or without. Elsewhere except is preferred: every country agreed to the proposal except (not excepting ) Spain; he was well again except for (not excepting ) a slight pain in his chest

Other Words From

• nonex·cepting adjective
• unex·cepting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of excepting¹

First recorded in 1540–50; except ² + -ing ²

Synonym Study

See except ¹.

Example Sentences

They have not finished any closer between then and now, excepting the pandemic-shortened season of 2020.

From Los Angeles Times

In contrast with the general population, the likelihood of being victimized was not influenced by age, race/ethnicity or gender, excepting sexual violence.

From Los Angeles Times

Alone among industrialized nations, the United States still does not guarantee paid parental leave or, excepting a brief period during the COVID-19 pandemic, provide any meaningful amount of federally funded childcare.

From Los Angeles Times

And last of all—excepting Cid—was the Rogue Legion.

From Literature

His clean-shaven face is ruddy and, excepting a divot between his eyebrows, unwrinkled.

From New York Times

Related Words

• fewer