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

But for the past several years he has been experimenting with landscapes.

From The Wall Street Journal

They too needed to avoid earning interest, but for reasons of Islamic law rather than tax avoidance.

From The Wall Street Journal

But for the first time, it’s starting to look like smart money isn’t laughing at the idea anymore — it’s quietly sliding chips across the table.

From Los Angeles Times

But for the Bruins to advance to past a Sunday showdown most likely against powerful Connecticut, Cronin says they’ll first need to contain Central Florida’s potent attack.

From Los Angeles Times

But for the admissions essay, the dry and uninspired robot voice turns one teenager after the next into only the archetype of a teenager, writing like a grown-up.

From Slate