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

"I think it warrants that, because it is truly a great property," she said.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

“Over time equities should rise with inflation because companies can raise their prices,” says Wade Pfau, author of the Retirement Planning Guidebook.

From Barron's • May 30, 2026

And because photos can be snapped so quickly, it’s often hard for school supervisors to know it’s even happening.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

Lamb said it was unusual to be allowed to work on such programmes at the same time and that it was partly because the late Windsor wanted him as her "new love interest".

From BBC • May 30, 2026

Not because I thought I would magically change; I already knew the secret.

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