but for

preposition

Examples of but for in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Available in two-packs of pouches ($21) or a six-pack ($54), but for the rest of the month get 15% off using the code TODAY15. Mike Snider, The Courier-Journal, 19 Apr. 2024 And the round shape reminds me of the Bottega Veneta Jodie Bags — but for only $22. Alyssa Grabinski, Peoplemag, 19 Apr. 2024 All went as planned for Goliath but for one tiny, itsy-bitsy detail. Judith Regan, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Apr. 2024 The Cuban government blames the U.S. embargo for the situation, but for years has been unable to reform its socialist economy, which is centrally planned and bogged down by bureaucratic restrictions and mismanagement. Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2024 There is no single formula for radicalization, experts say, but for some young Tajik migrants, personal grievances outweigh geopolitical considerations. Eric Schmitt, New York Times, 18 Apr. 2024 Since the start of the pandemic, vacancy rates have risen by more than 10% in Austin and San Francisco, but for very different reasons. Byalena Botros, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2024 For some brands, this move can seem overly conservative, but for Patek Philippe — a storied independent brand with a catalog full of genre-defining designs — updating the classics can be even more satisfying for collectors than dropping new and daring watches. Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2024 It’s written on the soul of those who lived through it, but for others it may have been overtaken by the urgencies of a presidential election, the rising death toll in Gaza or some singularly personal calamity that requires full attention. Robin Givhan, Washington Post, 9 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'but for.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of but for was in the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near but for

Cite this Entry

“But for.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/but%20for. Accessed 27 Apr. 2024.

Legal Definition

but-for

adjective
: of or relating to the necessary cause (as a negligent act) without which a particular result (as damage) would not have occurred
a but-for test of causation
compare substantial factor
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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