as in almost
very close to but not completely
dinner is all but on the table, so don't go anywhere
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for all but
Adverb
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Another, says Lentsch, was when the Wyoming state senate almost passed SJ2, a bill seeking to transfer all federal land in Wyoming to the state for the purpose of selling it off.—
Natalie Krebs,
Outdoor Life,
3 Apr. 2026 -
Nacua became known for his infectious enthusiasm and ability to catch almost anything Rams MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford threw his way.—
Los Angeles Times staff,
Los Angeles Times,
2 Apr. 2026
Adverb
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On that night 15 months ago, the French wunderkind accomplished a feat none of the others could, forcing Jokic to give up on the Sombor mid-shuffle with a close-out that practically reached into the upper deck.—
Bennett Durando,
Denver Post,
5 Apr. 2026
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And practically any relief is welcome when the Chicago area’s property tax bills have shot up at twice the rate of inflation over the past three decades.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
5 Apr. 2026
Adverb
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By morning, nearly six inches of fresh Colorado powder had settled over the car, frosting its sharp lines and futuristic shape like confectioner’s sugar on a pastry.—
Sponsored Content,
Denver Post,
4 Apr. 2026
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Gamez has been a DART employee for nearly three decades.—
Erin Jones,
CBS News,
4 Apr. 2026
Adverb
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Idaho adults pay about $145 for a sportsman’s package that includes fishing and hunting licenses and a variety of tags for species including deer, elk, bear, mountain lion and wolf.—
Nicole Blanchard,
Idaho Statesman,
4 Apr. 2026
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Other considerations include matching the frame to your mattress’s thickness and leaving about 24 inches of walking space around the bed.—
Sharon Brandwein,
USA Today,
4 Apr. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“All but.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/all%20but. Accessed 7 Apr. 2026.
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