'Because' clauses
A1 BeginnerUse 'because' to connect a result with its reason. It explains why something happens or why someone does an action.
Overview
The word because is a conjunction used to introduce a reason. In a sentence, it connects a main clause (the result) to a subordinate clause (the cause).
- It answers the question Why?
- The information after 'because' is the reason for the information before it.
Form
[Main Clause] + because + [Subject] + [Verb]
At the A1 level, 'because' usually sits in the middle of the sentence. It is followed by a full clause, which means it needs a subject and a verb.
Examples
Common mistakes
I like tea because is hot.
I like tea because it is hot.
A 'because' clause must include a subject (it) before the verb.
Why you are late? Because the bus was slow.
Why are you late? Because the bus was slow.
In spoken English, you can start a short answer with 'because', but ensure the question word order is correct.
Practice
Complete the sentence: I am wearing a coat ___ it is cold.
Show answer
because
Answer:because
Why:'Because' is used here to provide the reason for wearing a coat.
Choose the correct sentence: A) He is sleeping because he is tired. B) He is sleeping because tired.
Show answer
A
Answer:A
Why:The word 'because' must be followed by a subject (he) and a verb (is).
Join these two sentences: 'I like fruit.' 'It is healthy.'
Show answer
I like fruit because it is healthy.
Answer:I like fruit because it is healthy.
Why:'Because' connects the preference to the reason.