Accept vs. Except

Accept is to receive or agree to something willingly. Except means an exception for something or someone.

The words accept and except are homophones, which means they sound the same but have different meanings and uses in the English language. Understanding when to use each word is crucial for effective communication.

What does accept mean?

Accept is a verb that means to receive something willingly or to agree to something.

Example sentences

She decided to accept the job offer because it was a great opportunity.
The team will accept donations for the charity event.
He couldn't accept the fact that he had made a mistake.

What does except mean?

Except is primarily used as a preposition or conjunction to indicate exclusion or an exception to a rule.

Example sentences

Everyone in the class passed the test except for John.
I like all fruits except for bananas.
The museum is open every day except Mondays.

Confusing these two words can lead to misunderstandings, so it's important to keep their meanings and uses in mind. "Accept" involves receiving or agreeing, while "except" indicates exclusion or a deviation from a general rule or statement.

Common idioms/phrases

Idioms and Phrases with "Accept":

Accept the consequences: To acknowledge and deal with the results, whether positive or negative, of one's actions or decisions.
- Example: He had to accept the consequences of his reckless behavior.
Accept with open arms: To welcome someone or something warmly and enthusiastically.
- Example: The community accepted the new family with open arms when they moved in.
Accept the challenge: To agree to participate in a difficult or demanding task or competition.
- Example: She was eager to accept the challenge of climbing the mountain.

Idioms and Phrases with "Except":

Everything except the kitchen sink: Refers to including almost everything imaginable, leaving out very little.
- Example: When they went camping, they packed everything except the kitchen sink.
No one is perfect, myself included: Acknowledging one's own flaws or mistakes, emphasizing that nobody is without faults.
- Example: I've made my fair share of mistakes—no one is perfect, myself included.
All but: Nearly or almost, typically used when something is almost completely true or accurate.
- Example: The project was all but finished; just a few minor details remained.
Rule with no exceptions: A rule or principle that applies universally without any exceptions.
- Example: In this company, punctuality is a rule with no exceptions.

Practice Questions

Sarah was delighted to accept/except the award for her outstanding performance.
All students, accept/except for James, submitted their homework on time.
The bakery will accept/except orders for custom cakes until 5:00 PM.
We're going to the beach tomorrow, accept/except if it rains.
I can accept/except your apology, but I can't forget what you did.
Everyone is coming to the party accept/except for Tom, who has a prior commitment.
The store doesn't accept/except credit card payments; cash or check only.
Accept/Except for a few minor errors, your essay is excellent.
The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, accept/except for their delicious pasta.
Please accept/except my heartfelt congratulations on your wedding day.

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