except that it turns

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "except that it turns" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a condition or exception related to a situation or statement, often in a narrative or descriptive context. Example: "The weather was perfect for a picnic, except that it turns unexpectedly cold in the evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The command right (or rt) is just like left, except that it turns the turtle clockwise, toward its own right.

University of California, Berkeley

Except that it turns out he's not.

The New York Times

So that's great – except that it turns out that one form of anxiety has just been replaced with another.

The New York Times

Except that it turns out that Edwards does not want to rescue Debbie, he wants to murder her, because what she has done so offends his sense of decency.

The Guardian - Film

Except that it turns out you can lose, and lose big.

Forbes

This would, in a way, be fine – except that it turns out the solo rant to camera is a vastly better way of converting people than the tweet is.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Of course, I have no intention of giving away the plot, except to say that it turns on some very stupid actions by combatants who appear to be brilliant tacticians except when it suits the author's intent.

The New York Times - Books

Except that it turned out to be true.

The Guardian - Opinion

Except that it turned out the two were one and the same.

The New York Times

Except that it turned out there were no studies backing up the words-per-minute claim, which Brizendine later removed from the paperback edition.

The New York Times - Books

Every mother's dream --except factthatfact that it turned out to be more like a biweekly home inspection from the Mosad.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "except that it turns", ensure that the clause following it provides a clear contrast or unexpected development to the initial statement. This creates a more impactful and informative sentence.

Common error

Avoid using "except that it turns" if the contrasting information is already obvious or doesn't significantly alter the meaning. This can make your writing sound redundant and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "except that it turns" functions as a connector, introducing a contrasting element or unexpected development to a preceding statement. As noted by Ludwig AI, it indicates a shift from what might be initially expected, adding complexity or surprise to the narrative.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

17%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "except that it turns" is a useful conjunction phrase for introducing unexpected developments or contrasts to a statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and found across various reliable sources. While not extremely common, it adds nuance and complexity to writing, signaling a significant shift in the narrative. When crafting content, remember that using other contrast indicators, like "however, it develops", can provide similar meaning. Be mindful to use it where a significant shift in what is being described takes place, but avoid it in situations that add minimal meaning, to preserve writing effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but then it happens

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the turn or change.

however, it develops

Formal alternative indicating a shift or evolution in the situation.

yet, it results in

Highlights the contrasting outcome despite initial expectations.

aside from the fact that it transforms

More descriptive, focusing on the act of transformation.

save for when it converts

A somewhat archaic phrasing, emphasizing the conversion aspect.

with the exception that it evolves

Formal and focuses on gradual change or evolution.

were it not that it metamorphoses

Highly formal, emphasizing dramatic change.

but the reality is it alters

Highlights the difference between expectation and reality.

nevertheless, it changes

Simple contrast, focusing on the change itself.

notwithstanding that it switches

Emphasizes that the change is not prevented by something else.

FAQs

How can I use "except that it turns" in a sentence?

Use "except that it turns" to introduce an unexpected twist or contrasting outcome to a situation. For instance, "The plan seemed perfect, except that it turns out we were missing a crucial piece of information."

What are some alternatives to "except that it turns"?

You could use alternatives such as "however, it develops", "yet, it results in", or "but then it happens" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "that" after "except"?

While not strictly required, including "that" after "except" often improves clarity and flow, especially when introducing a longer clause. Omitting it can sometimes make the sentence sound slightly less formal, but it's often a matter of style. However, using the alternative "but then it happens" removes the question entirely.

What's the difference between "except that it turns" and simply saying "but"?

"Except that it turns" generally introduces a more significant or unexpected contrast than a simple "but". It emphasizes a shift or development in the situation, whereas "but" can be used for more minor or predictable contrasts. A phrase like "nevertheless, it changes" also shows contrast, but emphasizes that an action occurs irrespective of other factors.