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  

/ bɪˈkɒz, -ˈkəz /

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. )

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

because

Is he entitled to keep it separate just because it came from his mother?

From MarketWatch ● Nov. 6, 2026

“It felt like I was in a fever dream because I had to pee so bad that I started to feel quite literally delirious,” said Hidalgo, a 31-year-old product manager in New York City.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 6, 2026

It was suggested to last month's committee that because two thirds of callers end up in EDs anyway, Phone First was less effective than some other services at reducing pressures.

From BBC ● Nov. 6, 2026

But Nejla and Esra won't be there -- because they have to stay to protect their lands.

From Barron's ● Nov. 6, 2026

I think that’s because I’m finally starting to get the hang of the last measure, the one that’s been giving me trouble for the past few days.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold

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