except this time

USAGE SUMMARY

"except this time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express the idea that something is different than usual. For example, "I usually take the bus to work, except this time I'm taking a cab."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Except this time Team Obama didn't.

The New York Times

Except this time I got in.

The New York Times - Travel

Except this time it is different.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Except this time it's Ryan & Son.

Independent

Except this time terrorism has come to our doorstep.

The New York Times

Except this time, they're not content with just retro reproductions.

The New York Times - Food

Except this time he is heading out of the valley.

The New York Times

Except this time there was one key difference.

The Guardian - Opinion

Except this time the program would harm the environment.

The New York Times - Magazine

Except this time, nobody's nodding off at the back.

The Guardian - Travel

Except this time he would not be coming back.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "except this time" to clearly signal a deviation from a previously established pattern or expectation. It works best when the contrast is significant and immediately relevant to the context.

Common error

Avoid using "except this time" without first establishing what the 'previous time' refers to. Without a clear reference, the phrase can confuse the reader and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "except this time" functions as a conjunctive phrase, indicating a contrast or deviation from a previous action or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts, highlighting its role in setting up an exception to an established pattern.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "except this time" serves as a versatile conjunctive phrase, commonly employed to introduce a notable contrast or deviation from a previous situation. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in News & Media, affirm its place in effective communication. To ensure clarity, use it to clearly signal a deviation from a previously established pattern or expectation. Consider alternatives like "however, on this occasion" or "but not this time" for slight variations in emphasis. Remember to avoid using "except this time" without a clear reference point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this time, unlike before

Directly contrasts the current situation with past occurrences.

but not this time

Directly negates the expected outcome in the present instance.

this time around, though

Highlights a recurrence with a noted difference.

differently this time

Focuses on the altered manner of the current situation.

however, on this occasion

Emphasizes the contrast with a slightly more formal tone.

on this occasion, though

Highlights a particular instance that diverges from usual expectations.

in this instance, however

Provides a formal alternative, focusing on the current situation.

yet, in this case

Indicates a deviation from the norm specifically for this event.

however, not today

Emphasizes the exception specifically for the present day.

but things are different now

Highlights a change in circumstances leading to a different outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "except this time" to introduce a change or contrast to a previously mentioned situation. Ensure that the context clearly establishes what you're comparing the current situation to. For example, "I usually walk to work, "except this time" I am taking the bus because it's raining."

What are some alternatives to "except this time"?

You can use alternatives like "however, on this occasion", "but not this time", or "this time around, though" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "except this time"?

While it's more common to find "except this time" in the middle of a sentence, it can start a sentence for emphasis or stylistic effect. It's crucial that the preceding context makes the comparison clear. However, it depends on the context and desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "except this time" and "unlike last time"?

"Except this time" focuses on a specific change in the current situation, while "unlike last time" more broadly contrasts the present with a past event. Both can be used effectively, but "except this time" often highlights a particular detail that is different.