Because vs Cause
What’s the difference between them?
Because
Meaning:
Because is a conjunction used to show the reason or cause for something.
Examples:
1. Because it was raining, I decided to stay inside.
2. I didn't go to the party because I had other plans.
3. Because of his hard work, he was able to get the promotion.
Cause
Meaning:
a reason for something to happen; a source of motivation or influence; to influence something.
Examples:
1. His actions caused a lot of stress.
2. The accident was caused by a lack of safety regulations.
3. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Because
1. Due to
2. Owing to
3. Since
4. For
5. On account of
1. Against
2. Disregard
3. Despite
4. Unrelated
5. Contrary to
Cause
1. Origin
2. Bring about
3. Initiate
4. Effect
5. Spark
1. Effect
2. Allow
3. Prevent
4. Discourage
5. Refrain
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Because", "Cause".
1. 'Because' and 'cause' is that 'because' is a subordinating conjunction used to join two clauses.
2. 'Cause' is a noun. In informal contexts it is a short version of 'because.'
3. When deciding between 'because' and 'cause', consider the context of the sentence. If the word is connecting two clauses, use 'because'.
4. If it is being used in reference to the reason for something, use 'cause.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word 'because' be used?
Because is used when explaining why something is the case. It is usually followed by a clause that gives the reason for something. For example, 'I'm going to the store because I need milk'.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word 'cause'?
Cause is typically used when referring to the underlying factor or root of a problem or situation. It is usually followed by a noun or phrase. For example, 'Poverty is the cause of much suffering in the world.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words are pronounced differently. Because is pronounced as 'bih-kawz', while cause is pronounced as 'kawz'.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake is using the word cause when you should use because. It is important to remember that because is used to explain why something is the case, while cause is used to refer to the underlying factor or root of a problem or situation. Another mistake is mispronouncing the words. Be sure to pronounce because as 'bih-kawz' and cause as 'kawz'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. He stayed home ________ he was feeling ill.
2. What is the ________ of this sudden change in weather?
3. Pollution can ________ many respiratory problems.
4. I cant go to the party ________ I have an important meeting early tomorrow.
5. Smoking is a leading ________ of heart disease.
6. She always carries an umbrella ________ she hates getting wet in the rain.
1. He stayed home because he was feeling ill.
Explanation: Here, the word is used to show the reason for staying home. Because fits as it connects the two statements to indicate causation.
2. What is the cause of this sudden change in weather?
Explanation: In this context, the word refers to the reason or factor behind a certain occurrence. Cause is appropriate as it seeks an explanation for the change in weather.
3. Pollution can cause many respiratory problems.
Explanation: The word here refers to the action of bringing about a result. Cause is used in the sense of leading to or producing an effect, making it the right choice.
4. I cant go to the party because I have an important meeting early tomorrow.
Explanation: Because is used to link two statements and show the reason for not attending the party.
5. Smoking is a leading cause of heart disease.
Explanation: The context requires a noun that indicates the reason behind a certain result. Cause is the right choice as it refers to the source of a specific outcome.
6. She always carries an umbrella because she hates getting wet in the rain.
Explanation: Here, the word is used to show the reason for carrying an umbrella. Because connects the two statements to indicate the rationale.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.