but for
Speech parts
1. but for - Adjective
2. but for - Preposition
Meaning
Except, except for, not counting; were it not for.
despite; in spite of
but for (not comparable)
(law) Pertaining to a test of causation whereby an agent or action is considered to have caused an event (and therefore to be responsible and/or liable for said event) if, had said agent or action not existed, the event would not have taken place.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
When men search for God with their bodily eyes they find Him nowhere, for He is invisible. But for those who ponder in the Spirit He is present everywhere. He is in all, yet beyond all.
If you practice an excellent virtue without perceiving the taste of its aid, do not marvel; for until a man becomes humble, he will not receive a reward for his labor. Recompense is given, not for labor, but for humility.
We cherish our friends not for their ability to amuse us, but for ours to amuse them...
Who has not had a taste longs to do so, but for whom has tasted then the longing is a hundred times more.
The earth is not thirsty for the blood of the warriors but for the sweat of man's labor.
With everything Messina has the port, but for beautiful Palermo it is always just an orchard.