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

“It’s creating such confusion, such anxiety, such an administrative burden, not just for the individuals, but for organizations like mine.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 28, 2026

Beijing may close this window itself, but for now it’s open.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 27, 2026

The sun may be hiding behind grey clouds, but for hundreds of people in flowing red dresses dancing on Yorkshire moorland it'll take more than a threat of rain to dampen their spirits.

From BBC ● Jul. 26, 2026

International Business Machines cut its outlook, but for analysts, the most important thing now is meeting those new targets.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 23, 2026

The room is dark, but for the first time, I wish it wasn’t.

From "A Rover's Story" by Jasmine Warga