Except – Understanding the Meaning

Except is a difficult concept to understand.  There are two things to look for in a sentence that includes “except”.

1. The rule
2. The exception (the thing that doesn’t follow the rule)

Let’s see a few examples:

• I am free all day except 2:30.
  • Rule: I am free all day.
  • Exception: I am not free at 2:30.
• Everyone except for Jim was invited.
  • Rule: Everyone was invited.
  • Exception: Jim was not invited.
• No right turn on red except curb lane.
  • Rule: No vehicles may turn right on red.
  • Exception: The vehicles in the curb lane (the lane nearest the side of the road) can turn on red.
• No one except me is allowed to go into the building.
  • Rule: No one is allowed to go into the building.
  • Exception: I am allowed to go into the building.
• Any time would work except 1:00.
  • Rule: Any time would work.
  • Exception: 1:00 would not work.

Check your understanding: 

• What does the following sentence mean?
• What is the rule?
• What is the exception?
• Tell me in the comment section below.

I always understand the sentence except when it includes the word “except”.