but for

Idioms and Phrases

Except for, were it not for. For example, But for the afternoon shower, it was a perfect day , or But for the children, they would have gotten a divorce long ago . [c. 1200]

Example Sentences

That’s raised a question around Washington that would be louder but for the cacophony about whether Trump’s Cabinet picks — alleged fellow sexual bad boys Matt Gaetz and Pete Hegseth; fellow admirer of murderous tyrants Tulsi Gabbard, and Kennedy, the conspiracy-minded anti-vaxxer who’s usually not a fan of fast food — will win Senate confirmation to head the Justice, Defense, intelligence and health departments, respectively.

From Los Angeles Times

“He’d be worthless” but for government subsidies, Trump sniped in 2022, before the two formed their mutually beneficial bond only months ago.

From Los Angeles Times

But for me, as a female actor, I just always assume that if you are the one at home, then they’re not really going to follow you.

From Los Angeles Times

But for now, the focus is on the festival, from figuring out the schedule to promoting it on social media.

From Los Angeles Times

Dating in the swipe-left era is hard for anyone who isn’t a bot, but for singles who grew up in the pre-internet era, when “going steady” was still a thing and an app was what you ate before the entree, the challenges are compounded.

From Los Angeles Times