Usage of other than, but and except.
Other than, but and except mean almost the same thing: they all introduce an exception to the preceding phrase.
Does what comes after other than, but or except actually determine which of those needs to be used? Is there some sort of rule?
I don't have a pen other than/except/but this.
I don't have an option other than/except/but to go with her.
I don't have an option other than/except/but going with her.
Top answer
These three words have a roughly similar sense, but are usually used differently. The three examples you gave are a little awkward in their usage (there are no set rules for this kind of usage; it has to be learned by experience). Here are some more representative ones: I don't have anything to write with except this piece of chalk.
- These three words have a roughly similar sense, but are usually used differently.
- The three examples you gave are a little awkward in their usage (there are no set rules for this kind of usage; it has to be learned by experience).
- Here are some more representative ones: I don't have anything to write with except this piece of chalk.
- ) There's no alternative except to go with her.
- ) I'm left with no choice other than going with her.
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These three words have a roughly similar sense, but are usually used differently. The three examples you gave are a little awkward in their usage (there are no set rules for this kind of usage; it has to be learned by experience). Here are some more representative ones:
I don't have anything to write with except this piece of chalk. (Other than and but would be too formal-soundin
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