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Because meaning: not the same as because of

Because gives a reason. “People move to cities. Because there's work.” looks fine, but in an essay that full stop is wrong. Yet starting with Because is sometimes OK.

Because means for the reason that, since. After because there's always a full clause with a subject and a verb: because it was late. It's neutral and works equally well in conversation, letters and essays.

How would you use because?

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clause + because + subject + verb; Because + clause, + clause; because of + noun

  • I took the earlier train because the roads were closed for the marathon.
  • Because the course was online, she could study after her night shifts.
  • We chose this hotel because it had free parking and a view of the sea.

What changed

First versionMany young people move to big cities. Because there are more jobs there.

RevisionMany young people move to big cities because there are more jobs there.

In speech, people often add the reason as a separate afterthought: “Many people move to big cities. Because there are more jobs there.” In written English, a because clause without a main clause counts as an incomplete sentence. The full stop was removed, and because joined the main clause.

Cambridge Dictionary

You can start a sentence with Because if it also has a main clause: Because rents are high, many students share flats. Before a noun without a verb, you need because of: because of high rents, not because high rents.

Your turn

Many students take part-time jobs ___ they need extra money for rent.

(because / because of)

Show the answer

because — After the gap comes a full clause with its own subject and verb: they need. That calls for because. Because of needs a noun: because of high rents.

Write why you chose your job, course or city. Name the choice and, in the same sentence, give one reason with because.

I chose a job in logistics because I enjoy solving problems under tight deadlines.

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