but也可表示“除……外”,用法同 except基本相同 (除外的不算在内,其余都或都不)｡

but和 except后都可以跟动词不定式作宾语｡但要注意的是,如果谓语动词是 do, but后所接的动词不定式不带 to,否则 to不可省

There was no one there but Jim.当时只有吉姆在那里｡

He could do nothing but (except) tell her the truth.他只有把事实真相告诉她｡

They had no choice but (except) to delay their trip.他们别无选择,只得推迟旅行｡

比较:

John did nothing but (except) wait in the room. (did为主要谓语动词 )

Nothing remained for her to do, but (except) to clean the dishes. (句中 do不是主要谓语动词,主要谓语动词是 remained,故须用 but(except) to)