present company excepted

Meaning: These remarks do not apply to anyone currently present in this conversation.

Example: “Most critics don't know anything about cooking, present company excepted.”

Origin: A polite formula that emerged in formal speech to soften criticism by explicitly excluding one's listeners from negative generalizations.

More English idioms

set in stone Unchangeable and permanent, fixed beyond modification.
nothing short of Absolutely; entirely; completely—nothing less than the full extent of what is stated.
give up the ghost To die, or to cease functioning entirely.
hammer and tongs With great vigor and force; in a determined and vigorous manner.
rhyme or reason Any logical sense or reasonable explanation.
drop in the bucket A contribution or action so small it is negligible compared to a massive problem.

Short sayings of timeless wisdom from more than 50 cultures, each with its meaning and origin.

Have but few friends, though many acquaintances. Quality relationships require intentional investment; shallow connections can be numerous…
The fifer don't pay a fiddler. A musician playing one instrument cannot compensate another musician for their work.
Fiddler's fare; meat, drink, and money. A fiddler's performance rewards him with sustenance, refreshment, and payment all at once.

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