except for one thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "except for one thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce an exception or a specific detail that contrasts with what has been previously mentioned. Example: "The project was a success, except for one thing: we went over budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All of it, that is, except for one thing: A Stinger on the rocks is still my winter drink.

The Washington Post

She likes it though, except for one thing - she has to count on her fingers.

The New Yorker

Except for one thing – the ringmaster, whose server they played on.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Except for one thing, it seems.

The Telegraph

Fascinating details, except for one thing.

The New York Times

Everything seemed straightforward except for one thing.

The Guardian

Except for one thing: It is freezing.

The New York Times - Travel

Basically, I'm fine except for one thing.

The New York Times - Magazine

All of this would make sense except for one thing.

The Washington Post

He could seemingly do anything — well, except for one thing.

Harvard Business Review

Except for one thing: He made $175,000 in July.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "except for one thing" to introduce a notable exception that slightly alters the overall impression or outcome, but doesn't negate the main point.

Common error

Avoid using "except for one thing" in very simple sentences where a direct contrast would be more effective. For instance, instead of saying "It was good, except for one thing: the price", try "It was good, but the price was high."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "except for one thing" functions as a conjunctive phrase, specifically an adversative conjunction. It introduces a contrast or exception to a preceding statement, signaling that while the general idea holds true, there's a specific point that deviates from it. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and widely employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "except for one thing" is a versatile phrase used to introduce an exception or qualification to a statement. It functions as a conjunctive phrase, providing a contrast or limitation. As Ludwig AI has confirmed, it's grammatically correct and enjoys wide usage, particularly in News & Media and Academia. While suitable for various contexts, it is advisable to avoid overuse in simple sentences. Consider alternatives like "but for one detail" or "save for one aspect" for nuanced expression. The phrase's frequency and presence in authoritative sources underscore its reliability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but for one detail

Changes the wording to a more concise expression focusing on a specific detail that contrasts with the rest.

save for one aspect

Replaces "thing" with "aspect", emphasizing a particular feature or facet as the exception.

apart from one item

Uses "item" instead of "thing", which makes the phrase slightly more specific and concrete.

barring one exception

Introduces a more formal tone, directly highlighting the exceptional case.

with one caveat

Emphasizes the exception as a warning or condition that needs consideration.

excluding one element

Focuses on a specific component being excluded from a general statement.

besides one point

Highlights a particular point or argument that stands apart from the rest.

notwithstanding one issue

Acknowledges a potential problem or concern that does not invalidate the overall statement.

other than one consideration

Presents the exception as a factor needing separate attention.

excepting only one matter

Introduces a more formal and legalistic tone, specifying the singular matter being excluded.

FAQs

How can I use "except for one thing" in a sentence?

Use "except for one thing" to introduce a specific detail or exception that contrasts with a general statement. For example, "The presentation was well-received, "except for one thing": the audio quality was poor."

What can I say instead of "except for one thing"?

You can use alternatives like "but for one detail", "save for one aspect", or "apart from one item" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "except of one thing" instead of "except for one thing"?

No, the correct phrasing is ""except for one thing"". The preposition "for" is necessary for correct grammatical structure.

What's the difference between "except for one thing" and "besides one thing"?

"Except for one thing" highlights an exception that slightly contradicts a positive statement, while "besides one thing" adds another element or consideration. The nuance lies in whether you're making an exclusion or an addition.