but for

preposition

: except for

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

buteonine

but for

Buthidae

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“But for.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/but%20for. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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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
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