anything but

Idioms  

1. By no means, not at all, as in He is anything but ambitious for a promotion. William Wordsworth in his long poem, The Prelude (1805–1806), wrote: “Grief call it not, 'twas anything but that.”

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Example Sentences

“My existence,” concludes a minor figure who proves to be anything but insignificant, “was nothing more than a drawing in the sand obliterated by the wind.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

And a plan for capturing Iran’s nuclear supply—assuming one exists—is anything but.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

They don't have any friends or followers and don't post anything but they interact with whatever comes up on their feed by liking posts, watching videos and following pages.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Snow flies might seem like ordinary insects, but their survival strategy is anything but typical.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

I wouldn’t say a word, wouldn’t do anything but stand on the back of the sled—unless a bootie or a quick snack was needed.

From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen