except where

USAGE SUMMARY

"except where" is a correct phrase in written English and it is used to express exceptions to the general rule.
Example sentence: "Food must not be eaten inside the library, except where specifically permitted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Except where it's not.

The New York Times

Except where Islam is concerned.

The New York Times

Statistics from NBA.com, except where noted.

The New York Times

All were 12 inches, except where specified.

The New York Times - Food

Except where noted, all are archbishops.

The New York Times

Except where noted, no smoking is allowed.

The New York Times - Travel

Except where to stick your next billion.

The Guardian

Except where he didn't, or couldn't.

The New Yorker

All credit cards are accepted, except where noted below.

The New York Times - Travel

Except where it's so lucid that it's almost wrong.

The New York Times - Books

Except where noted, dishes are à la carte.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "except where", ensure the context clearly defines what the exception entails. Be specific to avoid misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "except where" without clearly specifying the conditions that trigger the exception. A vague exception can lead to confusion and incorrect application of the rule.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "except where" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a condition or exception to a preceding statement. According to Ludwig, it's a grammatically correct construction used to specify instances when a general rule does not apply.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "except where" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce exceptions or conditions to general statements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It’s commonly found in news, scientific writing, and wikis, offering a neutral tone suitable for various contexts. To ensure clarity, always specify the conditions that trigger the exception. Alternatives include "unless" and "save where", offering similar but slightly different nuances. Overall, understanding its function and context is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

save where

Indicates an exception or condition, similar to "except where", focusing on what is being saved from the general rule.

unless

Expresses a condition under which something will not be the case, differing slightly in emphasis from "except where".

but where

Introduces an exception or qualification, similar to "except where", often used to contrast with a previous statement.

excluding instances where

More formal and explicit, specifying that certain instances are not included, similar to "except where".

aside from when

Highlights specific times or situations that are exceptions, similar to "except where", focusing on temporal exceptions.

barring the case when

A formal expression indicating an exception, focusing on barring a specific case, similar to "except where".

with the exception that

A formal and explicit way of stating an exception, similar to "except where", emphasizing the exceptional nature.

other than in situations where

Clearly identifies alternative situations, similar to "except where", providing a more detailed explanation.

not counting cases when

Excludes particular cases from a general statement, similar to "except where", focusing on excluding specific occurrences.

excluding the times that

Specifies times or occasions that are exceptions, similar to "except where", emphasizing the exclusion of certain periods.

FAQs

How can I use "except where" in a sentence?

Use "except where" to introduce an exception to a general statement. For example, "All employees are required to attend the meeting, "except where" they have prior commitments.".

What's a simpler way to say "except where"?

Alternatives include "unless", "save where", or "but where" depending on the context.

Is there a formal synonym for "except where"?

A more formal alternative is "with the exception that", which provides a more explicit statement of the exception.

When is it best to use "except where" over other alternatives?

Use "except where" when you need to clearly and concisely specify the conditions under which a general rule does not apply. It is particularly useful in technical or legal writing where precision is important.