except, accept

except - /ɪkˈsɛpt/

accept - /əkˈsɛpt/

• She was ready to accept everyone’s help, except for his.
• I accept all feedback, except when it's not constructive.
• He’ll accept any job, except the one that involves working weekends.
• Everyone was invited to the event, except those who didn’t accept the terms.
• They accept all major credit cards, except American Express.
• The teacher will accept late assignments, except if they are more than a week overdue.
• I accept the challenge, except under unfair conditions.
• She decided to accept every request, except the ones that would take too much time.
• They were willing to accept the proposal, except for the high costs involved.
• We accept all members, except those who do not follow the rules.

Key Differences:

    • Accept (to agree to or receive something): /əkˈsɛpt/

    • Except (excluding or other than): /ɪkˈsɛpt/

The difference in pronunciation can be subtle:

    • Accept has a schwa sound /ə/ at the beginning, making it sound softer and more neutral.

    • Except starts with a clear /ɪ/ sound.