because

American  

[bih-kawz, -koz, -kuhz] / bɪˈkɔz, -ˈkɒz, -ˈkʌz /

conjunction

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

   The boy was absent because he was ill.

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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!

idioms

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

   Schools were closed because of heavy snowfall.

because British  

/ -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. (preposition) on account of

   I lost my job because of her

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Usage

See reason.

Etymology

Origin of because

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

Example Sentences

Because Chet Holmgren still goes for 24 points and 12 rebounds.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Because we were so comfortable with each other by that point, the conversation didn’t feel scary or awkward.

From MarketWatch • May 5, 2026

Because transporting oil is a slow process, price movements in the wholesale markets take about a fortnight to show at the pump.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

Because this approach boosts beneficial pigments and aroma compounds without reducing yield or plant vigor, it could be especially useful for developing high-quality produce.

From Science Daily • May 5, 2026

“No. Because it helped her raise you, and now here you are, set to go to law school and learn Chikashanompa and give back to the people.”

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith