Definitions

because

[bih-kawz, -koz, -kuhz] / bɪˈkɔz, -ˈkɒz, -ˈkʌz /

CONJUNCTION

on account of

Synonyms

WEAK

as as a result of as long as as things go being by cause of by reason of by virtue of considering due to for for the reason that for the sake of in as much as in behalf of in that in the interest of in view of now that on the grounds that over owing to seeing since thanks to through whereas

PREPOSITION

on account of

Synonyms

WEAK

as being by cause of by reason of by virtue of considering due to for for the reason that for the sake of in as much as in behalf of in that in the interest of in view of now that on the grounds that over owing to seeing since thanks to through whereas

Usage

What are other ways to say because? The conjunction because introduces a direct reason for an occurrence or action: I was sleeping because I was tired. As and since are so casual as to imply merely circumstances attendant on the main statement: As (or since) I was tired, I was sleeping. The reason, proof, or justification introduced by for is like an afterthought or a parenthetical statement: I was famished, for I had not eaten all day. The more formal inasmuch as implies concession; the main statement is true in view of the circumstances introduced by this conjunction: Inasmuch as I was tired, it seemed best to sleep.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“I think queer history is just so fabulous and interesting to me, partly because I’m queer, but also because it’s just so fabulous and interesting,” he laughs.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

He said while he was treated in hospital he saw men undergoing the traditional radiotherapy who looked "dreadful" in comparison because of the repeated bouts of treatment.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

Meanwhile Grynspan, 70, the head of the UN trade and development agency UNCTAD, said she was running "because I think I am the best person for the job".

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

That would likely subject new companies to the tax because San Francisco workers generally make more than those elsewhere.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

“Earl, didn’t she try to learn French just because of that song?”

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold

because

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words