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Synonyms

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.


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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Usage

See reason.

Etymology

Origin of because

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“It’s a milestone because round numbers intrigue everyone,” Newton Zinder, chief market analyst for E.F.

From Los Angeles Times

William LeFevre, market strategist for the Hartford-based investment firm of Advest, added: “This will bring a lot of little investors into the market, because the publicity associated with it focuses a lot of attention on the Dow.”

From Los Angeles Times

Twisted Sister has canceled all of its 50th anniversary performances following the departure of lead singer Dee Snider because of “a series of health challenges.”

From Los Angeles Times

The “I Wanna Rock” singer is no longer able to perform in the way that he used to because of multiple heath issues.

From Los Angeles Times

The person requested anonymity because Kingsbury’s role has not been announced.

From Los Angeles Times