# except for

idiom · CEFR A2

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/except-for
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

This phrase introduces the only thing or person that is not included in a general statement.

## Examples

- Everyone is here except for Sarah.
- The park was empty except for a man walking his dog near the pond.
- The entire village remained silent throughout the night, except for the distant, rhythmic tolling of the church bell.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.