A1conjunctionhigh_frequency_chunk

Because

UK /["/bɪˈkəz//bɪˈkɒz/"]/US /["/bɪˈkəz//bɪˈkɔːz/"]/

Definition

for the reason that

Examples

  • I did it because he told me to.
  • Just because I don't complain, people think I'm satisfied.
  • Because it was so late, he found it unacceptable to send them all away.

Usage notes

Use 'because' to provide explanations or reasons. It's neutral and can be used in most contexts, but avoid in overly formal writing where 'due to' or 'as a result of' might be better.

Grammar pattern

conjunction + clause

Memory hint

Think of it as 'be-cause' you need a reason.

Collocations

  • because of
  • say because
  • think because

Synonyms

  • since
  • as
  • for
  • due to

Antonyms

  • although
  • unless

Common mistakes

  • 'Because' is sometimes confused with 'so', which has a different meaning.
  • Learners may forget to follow 'because' with a complete clause.
  • Some may use 'because of' incorrectly; it should be used with a noun, not a clause.