except
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɪkˈsɛpt/
KK: /ɪkˈsɛpt/
conjunction
Definition
Used to indicate that something is not included or is an exception to what has been mentioned.
Example
I would go to the party, except I have to work that night.
Conversation
Are you going to the party tonight?
I want to, but I have a lot of work to finish.
You should come, it will be fun, except if you really can’t make it.
I guess I could stop by for a little while, except I might leave early.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
but
save
excluding
Antonyms
including
accepting
allowing
preposition
Definition
Used to indicate that something is not included or is different from what has been mentioned.
Example
Everyone except John was invited to the party.
Conversation
Are you going to the party tonight?
Yeah, I’ll be there, except I might arrive a bit late.
That's cool! I hope everyone else shows up on time.
transitive verb
Definition
To leave something out or not include it in a group or list.
Example
Everyone was invited to the party except John.
Tense Forms
Past: excepted
Past Participle: excepted
Conversation
Did you enjoy the party last night?
Yeah, it was fun! I liked the music.
I'm glad you had a good time, I hope they except the noise complaints.
Root Explanation
Except is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "capere" (meaning to take). The word means to take out from a group or to exclude something.
Memory Tip
Think of taking something 'out of' ('ex-') a group — that's why except means to exclude.
Visually Confused Words
recept
exempt