but for

Except, except for, not counting; were it not for. / despite; in spite of

Japanese Meaning

〜を除いて、〜以外 / もし〜がなければ、〜でなかったら / 〜にもかかわらず

But for the rain, the picnic would have gone ahead as planned.

雨がなければ、そのピクニックは予定どおり行われただろう。

Sense（1）

Except, except for, not counting; were it not for.

I once did lend my body for his wealth,

Which, but for him that had your husband's ring,

Had quite miscarried: […]

Sense（2）

despite; in spite of