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

In turn, the investments grandparental figures make promote a form of longevity that is gained not just for its own sake, but for a larger and nobler purpose.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026

Universal, Paramount, Warner Bros. and Sony had job ads suggesting they were also using AI but for marketing, distribution and audience analytics.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 26, 2026

"And then we spent our lives behind the guys, everything went wrong, but for sure we have to do a much better job on Sunday."

From BBC ● Jul. 26, 2026

Over time Warsh may get that deference, but for now it’s “early days” for him, Kocherlakota said.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 25, 2026

These gloves were not for wearing, but for challenging people to duels at the slightest provocation, or for no reason at all.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood