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

See Examples For:

but for

“I think he’s going to be a high-high impact player for us, not only this year, but for years to come.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 17, 2026

For some, networking comes naturally but for others, the thought of approaching someone they don't know and trying to make a professional connection can fill them with dread.

From BBC ● Sep. 16, 2026

"This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength," she said.

From Barron's ● Sep. 16, 2026

This tangent of a tangent was patently engineered to provide a Harry Potter-style faceoff of sorcery skills, but for all its supposed drama it comes off as pretty silly.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 10, 2026

John could find the Msaidizi, but for you to talk to his ghost, I’d have to conjure him.

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas