but for

Idioms and Phrases

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]

Example Sentences

A US- and French-brokered ceasefire, which is largely holding, halted the war last week, but for many of the country’s business owners and workers the pain is only beginning.

From BBC

It would be a huge sum for any similar nation, but for Lebanon it comes on the heels of a financial crisis in 2019 and the devastating port blast the following year.

From BBC

As for manpower, both Ukraine and Russia continue to experience difficulties, but for different reasons.

From BBC

But for hummingbirds, they're a lifeline.

From Science Daily

But for the next record I can envision someone urging you to work with, say, Jack Antonoff or Dan Nigro.

From Los Angeles Times