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. (preposition) on account of

   I lost my job because of her

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

The interim coach is finalizing the hiring of veteran assistant Kevin Coyle as a member of his defensive staff in a move that could bolster the team after the departure of defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe, according to one person close to the situation not authorized to discuss it publicly because the hiring has not been completed.

From Los Angeles Times

The hoops are a danger to the mammals because they can get stuck around their necks, with often fatal results.

From BBC

If a UK system was about "giving individuals power to access public services" Sir Ed said he could be in favour because "that could increase people's freedom and rights", but he warned against a model that could be abused by an "authoritarian" government.

From BBC

"Just because we can do something doesn't mean we should."

From BBC

But Piastri's first big mistake of the season was not as costly as it could have been, because main rival Norris was unable to make any ground from his seventh position on the grid.

From BBC

When To Use

Spelling tips for because

The word because is hard to spell since the -cause part of the word is pronounced [ koz ] or [ kuhz ]. How to spell because: The word cause means "reason or motive". To remember how to spell because, ask yourself, "What could be the cause of that?" Add be to the beginning of cause and you have because.