exceto

Exceto is a Portuguese word that functions as a preposition or conjunction meaning “with the exception of” or “except.” It is used to exclude a person, thing, or circumstance from a statement and can introduce a noun phrase or a subordinate clause.

Etymology and overview: Exceto comes from Latin excĭptus, the past participle of excipere, meaning “taken out.” In contemporary Portuguese, it is commonly used in the shorter form “exceto” or, more formally, as part of the phrase “com exceção de.”

Usage and grammar: As a preposition, exceto precedes a noun or pronoun to mark exclusion, as in “Todos, exceto João, foram à festa.” It can also appear in the form “com exceção de,” which is a synonym and sometimes preferred for clarity. As a conjunction, it can link a clause to express an exception, for example: “Não haverá reunião, exceto se houver mudanças de planos.” In formal or legal language, expressions such as “exceto nos casos de” are common.

Common equivalents and notes: Synonyms include “salvo,” “com exceção de,” and “menos.” The word is invariable in form; it does not change for gender or number, though the noun or pronoun it accompanies will reflect standard agreement.

See also: exceção, com exceção de, salvo.