except that this time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'except that this time' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used as an idiom to refer to a repetition of an action or experience with a different outcome. For example: I decided to try again, except that this time I took a different approach.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In many ways, it's similar to an Anonymous operation except that, this time, the FBI accused North Korea.

The Guardian - Opinion

Except that, this time around, the focus of that curiosity, was the woman who brought him into the world.

The Guardian - Music

Except that this time it actually might.

The Washington Post

Except that this time it's The Dogs.

The Guardian - Film

Except that this time he wasn't there.

The New Yorker

Except that this time round, Mog goes to heaven.

The Guardian - Books

Except that this time it's the Palestinian People being murdered.

The Washington Post

Except that this time, we know what we're doing.

The Guardian

Except that this time he was talking, not singing.

The Guardian

Except that this time, no one is saying the emperor looks great in his amazing clothes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a simple repeat of the gas tax pandering from earlier in the present election cycle--except that this time we can't be proud of the outcome.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "except that this time" to clearly signal a change or deviation from a previously established pattern or expectation. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "except that this time" when a simple contrast would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive or formulaic. Sometimes, a more direct conjunction like "but" or "however" is more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "except that this time" functions as a conjunction, specifically to introduce a contrast or exception to a previously stated or implied situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights a change leading to a different outcome. It connects two related ideas, emphasizing the alteration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Except that this time" is a versatile conjunction phrase used to indicate a change or deviation from a previously established pattern. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, it also appears in Academic and Scientific writing. While alternatives exist, this phrase provides a clear and direct way to highlight differences and altered outcomes. Remember to avoid overuse and ensure it adds value to your writing, preventing redundancy. It's a useful tool for emphasizing nuanced shifts in events and circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This time, however

Inverts the original structure for emphasis.

But this time around

Highlights a change in the current situation compared to a previous one.

On this occasion, unlike before

Clearly contrasts current and past circumstances.

However, in this instance

Emphasizes a specific contrasting case.

Yet, on this occasion

Formal way to introduce a contrasting situation.

With this iteration, though

Highlights change through iteration.

In this particular case

Draws attention to a specific exception.

The twist is that now

Adds element of surprise.

Differently this time

Focuses on a deviation from the norm.

Now the situation is such that

Describes changed circumstances comprehensively.

FAQs

How can I use "except that this time" in a sentence?

You can use "except that this time" to indicate a change in circumstances or outcome compared to a previous situation. For instance, "I tried baking a cake before, "except that this time" I used a different recipe, and it turned out perfectly."

What are some alternatives to using "except that this time"?

Alternatives include phrases like "however in this instance", "but this time around", or "this time, however", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "except that this time"?

It's appropriate when you want to draw a direct comparison to a past event or situation, highlighting a key difference that leads to a different result. It's useful for emphasizing how a change in approach or circumstance alters the outcome.

Is "except that this time" formal or informal?

"Except that this time" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, be mindful of your audience and consider whether a more concise or direct alternative might be more suitable for formal writing.