For vs. Because

because conjunctions of cause and effect for

'For' and 'because' can be used as conjunctions but what are their differences? In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

"For" vs. "Because" in the English grammar

What Is Their Main Difference?

The main difference between 'for' and 'because' is that as conjunctions 'because' is far more common. Although 'for' can have the same meaning, it is mostly found in literary texts.

Expressing Purpose

'For' and 'because' as conjunctions can be used to indicate the purpose of something or the reasons behind a phenomenon. Take a look at the following examples:

He felt uneasy for he knew he has been caught.

He felt uneasy because he knew he has been caught.

Tip!

'For' is less commonly used as a conjunction as it is considered outdated. You may face it only in literary contexts.

Are They Interchangeable?

We cannot always replace 'for' with 'because' as 'for' is not used only as a conjunction. It can be used as a preposition to talk about something 'in favor of' or 'to the benefit' of someone or something else. 'For' has many more functions which were not named here. 'Because' can only replace 'for' when it is used as a conjunction. Have a look:

They voted for freedom of all women. → They voted ~~because~~ freedom of all women.

He bought a present for his daughter. → He bought a present ~~because~~ his daughter.

He felt disdain toward her for she had murdered his brother. → He felt disdain toward her because she had murdered his brother.

Since

'Since' can also be used as a conjunction to convey the purpose or the reason for something. 'Since' and 'because' are more common than 'for.' Have a look:

I tackled all the hardships since I worked day and night.

I tackled all the hardships for I worked day and night.

I tackled all the hardships because I worked day and night.

Comments

To or Too Much

When we want to say that something is more than necessary we use 'to much' or is it 'too much'?

For vs. Since

Both 'for' and 'since' are used to talk about how long an action continues. In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

To or For Someone

Is it 'to someone' or is it 'for someone?' In this lesson, we will learn when and how to use each of them.

For vs. During

We use 'for' and 'during' to indicate time but there are differences between them. In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

With vs. By

'With' and 'by' are prepositions that are used in various cases and have their differences. In this lesson, we will learn their differences and their uses.

With vs. Within

In this lesson, we will learn the differences between 'with' and 'within' and when to use them.

Download LanGeek app

Langeek