Except

/ɪkˈsɛpt/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To take or leave out; exclude.

They will except certain individuals from the new rules.

preposition

Used to exclude someone or something.

Everyone was invited to the party except John.

Other than; but.

I have no choice except to agree with you.

conjunction

Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or contradicts the preceding statement.

I would go, except that I have a prior commitment.

Middle English, from Latin 'exceptus', meaning 'to take out'.

except for:

used to indicate that something is not included.

except that:

used to introduce a clause that specifies something not included.

everyone except:

referring to all members of a group except one or more.

None; often used in a context to emphasize exclusivity.

Everyone's welcome, except.