Translation guide
The English phrase "apart from" has two main uses: (1) meaning "except for" or "excluding," and (2) meaning "in addition to" or "besides." Japanese uses different expressions for each, and the choice depends on whether the sentence is positive or negative.
To say "apart from X, everything else..." or "except for X." Used when X is an exception.
Attach to a noun. Means "except for ~" or "other than ~." Used in both positive and negative sentences. Very common and neutral.
彼以外はみんな来た。
Apart from him, everyone came.
日曜日以外はいつでもいいです。
Any day apart from Sunday is fine.
To say "apart from X, also Y" or "besides X." Used when adding information.
Attach to a noun. Means "in addition to ~" or "besides ~." The も is optional but emphasizes "also."
日本語以外にフランス語も話せます。
Apart from Japanese, I can also speak French.
以外は means 'except for' (exclusion), while 以外に means 'in addition to' (inclusion). The particle after 以外 changes the meaning. Use は for exceptions, に for additions.
彼以外は来なかった。
Apart from him, no one came. (exclusion)
彼以外に彼女も来た。
Apart from him, she also came. (addition)
While 以外 can mean 'except' or 'besides,' it needs a particle like は or に to clarify the relationship. Using 以外 alone can be ambiguous or ungrammatical in many contexts.
More formal/literary. Means "excluding ~" or "with the exception of ~." Often used in written language.
一部の地域を除いて、天気は晴れでしょう。
Apart from some areas, the weather will be sunny.
Similar to 以外は, but slightly more formal. Means "other than ~."
この件のほかは問題ありません。
Apart from this matter, there are no problems.
Apart from him, is there anyone else who can help?
Formal/written. Means "in addition to ~" or "besides ~." Often used in reports or presentations.
給料に加えて、ボーナスも出ます。
Apart from the salary, we also get a bonus.
Similar to 以外に, but slightly more formal. Means "besides ~."
英語のほかに中国語も勉強しています。
Apart from English, I'm also studying Chinese.