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

Czechia put up a strong performance during the first 45 minutes, while Mexico showed little offensive clarity, mainly because of a lack of control in midfield.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 25, 2026

"The economic devastation to Lake Street businesses because of Operation Metro Surge was immediate and severe," said Theresa Swaney, council director of operations.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2026

This is because estrogen helps protect bones by slowing the natural process of bone breakdown.

From Science Daily • Jun. 25, 2026

“It was hard for him, and hard for us, because I didn’t know how to help—except to be there.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

She can’t really hear God’s voice booming through the trees, but she pretends she does, because she’s imagining that she is Joan of Arc.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly