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

---

Usage

See reason.

Etymology

Origin of because

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

Example Sentences

But the move carries symbolic weight for investors, because Strategy has long been viewed as the most aggressive corporate buyer of bitcoin, with Saylor previously embracing a never-sell posture.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

No baseball games have been missed because of a work stoppage since the strike ended in the spring of 1995.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

Not because the Dodgers reliever gave up three runs in the eighth inning to the Philadelphia Phillies, blowing a save opportunity and getting tagged with his first loss of the season.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

For nearly 60 years, “60 Minutes” has stood apart because of its stubborn independence and commitment to irritating powerful people.

From Salon • Jun. 1, 2026

I understand what she’s saying is mostly true, but I have to believe that he’s not always like she says, because he can be good to me too.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam