diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index cbe0910365385..4827763c7b93a 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -64,7 +64,7 @@ Once this is done you can generate the build file. This will return you to the s
     make
 
 ## Contributing to HipHop
-HipHop is licensed under the PHP and Zend licenses expect as otherwise noted.
+HipHop is licensed under the PHP and Zend licenses except as otherwise noted.
 
 Before changes can be accepted a [Contributors Licensing Agreement](http://developers.facebook.com/opensource/cla) must be signed and returned.