meaning - What is the difference between "apart", "except", "other than" and "besides"?


Do the following phrases have the same meaning or are there differences?




  • Fortunately, apart from a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.

  • Fortunately, except for a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.

  • Fortunately, other than a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.

  • Fortunately, besides a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.




Answer




  • Fortunately, apart from a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.
    -- while apart itself is acceptable, it is awkward in this particular example.

  • Fortunately, except (for) a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.
    -- best option that conveys the meaning appropriately in the context.

  • Fortunately, other than a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.
    -- fine; can be an alternative to except, which is the right word in this case.

  • Fortunately, besides a broken toe, she was not badly hurt after the car accident.
    -- inappropriate: avoid besides when showing an exception.


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