But for

conjunction

Used to say that something would have happened or would be true if something else had not happened or been true.

But for the traffic, I would have been here earlier.
Visual representation of "but for" - Used to say that something would have happened or would be true if something else had not happened or been true

Often appears as...

  • but for the traffic
  • but for the rain
preposition

Except for, apart from.

There is nothing to discuss but for the issue at hand.
Visual representation of "but for" - Except for, apart from.

Often appears as...

  • nothing but for
  • everything but for
conjunction

Indicating the only thing that prevented a certain outcome.

She would have failed but for your help.
Visual representation of "but for" - Indicating the only thing that prevented a certain outcome

Often appears as...

  • but for your help
  • but for his diligence

Usage tips

Formal, Neutral

Academic

conjunction

Used to say that something would have happened or would be true if something else had not happened or been true.

But for the traffic, I would have been here earlier.
Visual representation of "but for" - Used to say that something would have happened or would be true if something else had not happened or been true

Often appears as...

  • but for the traffic
  • but for the rain
preposition

Except for, apart from.

There is nothing to discuss but for the issue at hand.
Visual representation of "but for" - Except for, apart from.

Often appears as...

  • nothing but for
  • everything but for
conjunction

Indicating the only thing that prevented a certain outcome.

She would have failed but for your help.
Visual representation of "but for" - Indicating the only thing that prevented a certain outcome

Often appears as...

  • but for your help
  • but for his diligence

Usage tips

Formal, Neutral

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "but for"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Conditionality

Expresses a condition where an event would change the outcome.

Illustration for Conditionality
I would've gone swimming but for the cold weather.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Hypothetical Situations

Ideal for discussing hypothetical outcomes or situations.

Illustration for Hypothetical Situations
But for my fear of heights, I might have tried hang-gliding.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Specific

Often used to explain delays or changes in timing.

Illustration for Time Specific
I would've been on time but for the long queue.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Conditionality

Expresses a condition where an event would change the outcome.

Illustration for Conditionality
I would've gone swimming but for the cold weather.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Hypothetical Situations

Ideal for discussing hypothetical outcomes or situations.

Illustration for Hypothetical Situations
But for my fear of heights, I might have tried hang-gliding.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Specific

Often used to explain delays or changes in timing.

Illustration for Time Specific
I would've been on time but for the long queue.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Conditionality

Expresses a condition where an event would change the outcome.

Illustration for Conditionality
I would've gone swimming but for the cold weather.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Hypothetical Situations

Ideal for discussing hypothetical outcomes or situations.

Illustration for Hypothetical Situations
But for my fear of heights, I might have tried hang-gliding.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Specific

Often used to explain delays or changes in timing.

Illustration for Time Specific
I would've been on time but for the long queue.
Visual representation of the word "But for"

Never forget "But for"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top