but for

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, not for Peter Magyar but for the country."

From BBC

Critics argue the system rewards workers not for skill or experience, but for what their behavior reveals about their financial vulnerability.

From MarketWatch

But for now, the hunt continues for someone else—anyone else—to blame.

From Slate

He will then make his picks - but for now this is my 26-man England squad to take to the World Cup.

From BBC

MarketWatch Picks: Plenty of CDs still offer 4% — even 5% — and higher, but for how long will those high APYs hold?

From MarketWatch