Because

In this lesson, we want to explore the word 'because' since it is very common in sentences.

'Because' is mainly used to show the reason behind something. It is mainly a conjunction, although it can informally be used as a preposition. In this lesson, we will discuss how to learn and use it.

Functions of 'Because'

'Because' as a Conjunction

As was mentioned above, 'because' is mainly used as a conjunction here. Below, we are going to analyze the kind of conjunction it can be:

Use

'Because' as a Subordinating Conjunction

'Because' is a subordinating conjunction and it connects a subordinate clause to the main one. It is used when we want to give the reason behind something. Look below:

I couldn't hold on anymore because the relationship was too toxic for me.

As you can see, it is clear why she did what she did.

A : Don't you ever feel guilty for what you did to me, my so-called friend?

B : Never, because you left me alone where I needed you the most.

Position in a Sentence

We can put 'because' at the beginning of the subordinate clause, or between the two clauses. Look at the following examples:

Only because you are older than me doesn't mean you can boss around and order me.

Here, it has been put at the beginning of the subordinate clause.

She arrived on time because she wanted to have a good first impression on the manager.

As you can see, 'because' has been used between the two clauses.

Tip!

It is useful to know that we can use adverbs before this conjunction. Take a look:

Don't you think it is mainly because she was hurt by your abusive words?

Here, we are signifying the main but not the only reason behind the action.

Selena is sick partly because she didn't listen to her mom about wearing warm clothes on a cold night.

Here, we are signifying part but not all the reason behind the action.

'Because' as a Preposition

Use

As was stated above, 'because' can seldom be used as a preposition, although this can only happen in informal settings. When we humorously want to show the reason behind something, although we do not want to explain it, we use 'because' as a preposition. Take a look:

A : Why do you think they hanged such a genius?

B : Because religion.

Position in a Sentence

Since we use 'because' here humorously about something and want to avoid giving further explanations about it, we use it before that particular noun. Look:

A : Why did she make that stupid mistake?

B : Because love.

'Because' vs. 'Because of'

We mainly use 'because' at the beginning of a clause whereas, we use 'because of' before a noun. Compare:

She's sad because of all your negativity.

(Not she is sad ~~because~~ all...)

They are late because they had their hands full.

(Not they are late ~~because~~ of they...)

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