Use when specifying who or what is not a part of a group or category, while the rest is included. All the books, with the exception of the dictionaries, were packed.
Pro Tip 2/3
Stress on Exclusion
The phrase emphasizes the exclusion of the person or thing, making them stand out as different or special. She could play all musical instruments, with the exception of the drums.
Pro Tip 3/3
Highlighting Exception
It can be used to highlight a rare exception to a rule or general situation. This rule applies to everyone, with the exception of the manager.