because

[ bih-kawz, -koz, -kuhz ]

conjunction

1. for the reason that; due to the fact that:

   The boy was absent because he was ill.

preposition

1. Informal. (used directly before a noun, adjective, verb, interjection, etc., to convey a very concise rationale, excuse, or explanation):

   We’re a little like monkeys because evolution.

   He doesn’t practice enough: because lazy.

   I love doughnuts because yum!

because

/ -ˈkəz; bɪˈkɒz /

conjunction

1. subordinating on account of the fact that; on account of being; since

   because it's so cold we'll go home

2. because of
   preposition on account of

   I lost my job because of her

Usage Note

See reason.

Usage

See reason

Word History and Origins

Origin of because¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English bi cause; by ( def ), cause ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of because¹

C14 bi cause , from bi by + cause

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. because of, by reason of; due to:

   Schools were closed because of heavy snowfall.

Example Sentences

Because he's joined the colors—he's not dead!Because he's found his duty—he's not lost!

From Project Gutenberg

I will drive you over-because it is rather a lonesome walk for you.

From Project Gutenberg

He was silent; and presently she said: "I—the reason of it—my crying—is b-b-because I don't wish you to be unhappy."

From Project Gutenberg

Can you picture a room where the portires are all of different lengths?because the decorator had no sense of line value?

From Project Gutenberg

At length she stammered: "I did not come b-because I simply couldn't stand it!"

From Project Gutenberg