LoginBecause vs. Cause
What Is Their Main difference?
The main difference between 'because' and 'cause' is in their parts of speech. 'Because' is used as a conjunctions and adverb while 'cause' is used as a noun and verb.
Because
As a Conjunction
'Because' can be used as a conjunction. To be more specific, it can be used as a subordinating conjunction. It expresses cause and effect (why an event happens or the result of an event).
We can't go to the park because it is too cold.
He will cry because he liked her so much.
As an Adverb
'Because' as an adverb can modify verbs, other adverbs, or adjectives. It classifies as 'adverbs of cause and effect.' In this case, 'because' is often followed by a preposition such as 'of.' Have a look:
I changed the furniture because of you.
I kept you out because of your own good.
Cause
As a Noun
'Cause' as a noun is used to express the reason for an action or event. Have a look:
The cause of his death was not mentioned in the report.
We are trying to track down the cause of the technical problem.
It is also used to show a principle that is encouraged by society. For instance:
These soldiers fight for a cause but I don't understand it.
We are helping this charity at the cause of disabled children.
As a Verb
'Cause' as a verb conveys the act of making something happen. Notice that usually, the event is a bad and unpleasant one. For example:
No one knows what caused the sudden fire.
The IT department wants to know what was causing the error to occur.
Are They Interchangeable?
In informal speech and writing, "'cause" (sometimes spelled "cuz" or "coz") is a shortened form of "because." While it may look like the word "cause," it functions as a conjunction meaning "because." Be careful not to confuse this informal usage with the standard noun or verb "cause," which has a different meaning.
He is angry with me because I yelled at him.
He is angry with me 'cause I yelled at him.
I am speaking quietly because I don't want to wake Harry up.
I am speaking quietly 'cause I don't want to wake Harry up.
Tip!
Technically, the correct informal form is "'cause" (with an apostrophe at the beginning) to show that it's a shortened version of "because." However, in casual writing, people often spell it "cuz" or "coz." For clarity, especially for learners, it's helpful to know that all of these mean "because," not the noun/verb "cause."
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