Except

Except is a preposition, conjunction, and verb that indicates exclusion or exception from a group, condition, or statement. It signifies that all other elements or cases are included, with the stated element being the only one that is not. It is commonly used in both everyday speech and formal writing to clarify exceptions.

Except meaning with examples

• Every student attended the meeting except Sarah, who was sick. It was clear that her absence was noted, but the rest of the class was eager to share what they had discussed. Sarah's participation was missed, as she often contributes valuable insights that enhance the discussions.
• I’ll be eating healthy meals this week except for Friday, when I have a dinner party. The idea is to stick to nutritious foods for most days, but make an exception for a special occasion. It’s all about balance and enjoying treats without overindulging on a regular basis.
• All the participants are required to wear safety gear except those who have prior exemptions. This policy ensures everyone’s safety, yet considers those who have legitimate reasons to opt-out. Therefore, it's essential to clearly document these exceptions to maintain transparency in safety protocols.
• She reads every genre of literature except horror. Though she enjoys thrilling stories, the level of fear in horror novels tends to overwhelm her. This exception in her reading preference allows her to explore various themes while avoiding those that cause her undue distress.
• Everyone in the office will join the conference call except John, who is on vacation. His presence is usually integral during these meetings, so the team will have to adjust their discussion to accommodate his absence. However, they plan to brief him on the key points once he returns.