all but

Idioms  

1. Almost, nearly, as in I've all but finished the book. This expression was used by Andrew Marvell in “Thoughts in a Garden”: “Society is all but rude, To this delicious solitude.” [Late 1500s]

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Example Sentences

The Gunners have clean sheets in all but three home games this season as well.

From BBC

It is a familiar practice given that Russia has launched long-range strikes on all but five nights in 2025, according to AFP analysis of Ukrainian air force data.

From Barron's

Providing unskilled public work across all but fully urban districts, the scheme has become a backbone of rural livelihoods, cushioning demand during economic shocks.

From BBC

All but three are thought to have made it to safety.

From BBC

That said, they must plan for life after Salah, who now looks all but set to leave by 2027 when his current deal expires.

From BBC

Related Words

• about
• approximately
• around
• essentially
• most
• much
• practically
• relatively
• roughly
• virtually