Besides vs. Except – Confusing English Words Lesson
English Grammar Lessons
Welcome to NJCLT's comprehensive English lesson on the confusing words 'besides' and 'except'. In this detailed lesson, we will explore the differences between these two terms and provide you with examples, tips, and common usage scenarios. By mastering these words, you will boost your language proficiency and improve your performance in exams such as TOEIC, TOEFL, and everyday English communication.
The Meaning of 'Besides'
'Besides' is commonly used as a preposition or adverb in English. As a preposition, it means 'in addition to' or 'apart from'.
Examples of 'Besides' in Sentences
- Besides English, she also speaks French and Italian.
- He enjoys playing basketball besides soccer.
- I have other commitments besides my part-time job.
The Meaning of 'Except'
'Except' is primarily used as a preposition or conjunction. It is used to exclude or make an exception for something or someone.
Examples of 'Except' in Sentences
- All the students passed the test except for John.
- Everyone attended the meeting except the new employee.
- She eats everything except for mushrooms.
Differences between 'Besides' and 'Except'
While both 'besides' and 'except' convey some form of exclusion or addition, there are specific nuances that differentiate their usage.
Usage of 'Besides'
'Besides' is used when referring to additional or supplementary information, objects, or actions. It implies inclusiveness along with something else.
Examples of 'Besides' Usage
- Besides studying English, she also learns Spanish.
- He enjoys painting besides playing the guitar.
- I have many hobbies besides traveling.
Usage of 'Except'
'Except' is employed to indicate exclusion and implies the exclusion of one or a few items from a larger set of possibilities.
Examples of 'Except' Usage
- All the students passed the test except for John.
- She eats everything except for mushrooms.
- No one attended the party except for Mark.
Tips for Using 'Besides' and 'Except' Correctly
To use these words effectively, consider the following guidelines:
1. Pay Attention to Context
Understanding the context in which 'besides' or 'except' is used is crucial. Analyze the sentence structure, the intended meaning, and the relationship between the conjoined ideas.
2. Be Clear in Your Expression
Ensure that you are conveying your thoughts clearly. Use appropriate punctuation, conjunctions, and word order to eliminate any ambiguity.
3. Expand Your Vocabulary
Enhancing your vocabulary is beneficial in mastering words with similar meanings. Explore synonyms and related terms to diversify your language skills.
4. Practice through Examples
Practice using 'besides' and 'except' in sentences to reinforce your understanding. Engage in conversations, write essays, and engage in other language-related activities to familiarize yourself with their usage.
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Whether you are a student preparing for an exam or an individual seeking to enhance your English skills, NJCLT has the expertise to support your language learning journey. Join us today and unlock your potential in English fluency.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the differences between 'besides' and 'except' is crucial to using them accurately in your English communication. Remember that 'besides' primarily refers to additional or supplementary elements, while 'except' excludes or makes exceptions for certain items. Utilize the tips provided and practice using these words to reinforce your language proficiency. With NJCLT's comprehensive English lessons, you can confidently navigate the complexities of English and succeed in your language goals.
