Translation guide
The English phrase 'other than' is used to mean 'except' or 'apart from', and also in the expression 'other than that' to mean 'otherwise' or 'besides that'. In Japanese, these meanings are expressed with different particles and phrases depending on the context.
To exclude something or someone from a statement, meaning 'except for' or 'besides'.
Attach 以外 (igai) directly after a noun to mean 'other than N' or 'except N'. This is the most common and versatile way to express exclusion.
私以外はみんな知っている。
Everyone knows except me.
To transition from one topic to another, meaning 'apart from that' or 'besides that', often used to change the subject or add a final point.
Literally 'other than that', used to mean 'otherwise' or 'apart from that'. Very common in conversation.
それ以外は大丈夫です。
Other than that, it's fine.
The phrase 他より (hoka yori) means 'than others' in a comparative sense (e.g., 'better than others'), not 'except'. Use 以外 or のほか for exclusion.
I can't speak any language other than Japanese.
Used after a noun with の (no) to mean 'other than N' or 'besides N'. Slightly more formal than 以外.
彼のほかに誰が来ますか。
Who else is coming other than him?
A more formal or written expression meaning 'excluding N' or 'with the exception of N'. Often used in official contexts.
一部の地域を除いて、明日は晴れるでしょう。
Other than some areas, it will be sunny tomorrow.
Means 'as for the rest' or 'other than that', often used to wrap up a list or discussion.
あとは特にありません。
Other than that, nothing in particular.