εἰ μή τι
ei mḗ ti
G1509
SILEX Entry
Definition
A conditional phrase meaning 'unless,' 'except that,' 'except perhaps,' or 'unless possibly'; introduces a specification or an exception, often softening an assertion by allowing for a possible case or uncertain alternative. Used to qualify or modify a statement, opening the way for an exception or a restricted possibility.
Semantic Range
unless, except that, except perhaps, unless possibly, if not something, with the possible exception; used to introduce an exception or allowance
Root / Etymology
Compound of εἰ μή ('if not, except') and the neuter form of τὶς ('someone, something'). The phrase literally means 'if not something.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
In Koine Greek, εἰ μή τι functions as a nuanced conditional expression, allowing a speaker or writer to introduce a possible exception or limitation to a general statement. It is more specific than simple εἰ μή, suggesting not just any exception but the possibility of a particular, often minor, qualifying case. This construction occurs in Greek prose and is inherited from Classical usage, but becomes more frequent and formulaic in the Hellenistic period. In the Septuagint and New Testament, it signals that what follows is a rare or unlikely exception to the rule, often used in legal, rhetorical, or narrative contexts. English translations vary, sometimes rendering it as 'except,' 'unless,' or 'unless perhaps,' depending on context; no single English expression fully replicates the subtlety of the Greek phrase.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from εἰ μή and the neuter of τὶς; if not somewhat:--except.
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 total occurrences
No occurrences found.