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; by ( def. ), cause ( def. )

Example Sentences

Still, the investigations have rattled the corporate world because the financial consequences can be significant.

From The Wall Street Journal

That in turn could lead to higher Treasury yields, because “if you’re adding volatility uncertainty, you should be able to receive more yield,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Some view that as a sign that investors are growing more worried about the Fed’s independence, because it suggests they expect rates to be lower in the short term, but not necessarily over the longer run.

From The Wall Street Journal

Hammani said he was let go because his brother paid a bribe.

From The Wall Street Journal

Opening day at Santa Anita might have been delayed by two days because of heavy rain, but it was worth the wait for no other reason than to watch the stretch run of the $200,000 Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes.

From Los Angeles Times