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

“The shipping industry needs to prepare for the possibility that Hormuz transits could remain abnormal, not just through the end of May, but for months beyond,” Greg Miller, a senior maritime reporter, wrote.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

Only 7% appealed their denials — but for those who did, 66% of those denials were overturned.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 22, 2026

Big celebrations after a 97th-minute equaliser are usually to be expected but, for the Leeds players at the Vitality Stadium, it was about more than just the point.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

With reservoir levels so low and the negotiations failing, Gold said, “there was really no choice but for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to step in and take a bold action.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

This is the day I’ve been working toward for so long, but for the rest of our neighborhood it’s just a day—no more special than yesterday or tomorrow.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison