because

The word “because” means for the reason that; introduces an explanation or cause. In plain terms, a word used to give the reason for something.

“Because” is pronounced bih-kuhz (/bɪkəz/ in IPA).

Here is “because” used in a sentence: “She stayed home because she was feeling unwell.”

Words with a similar meaning to “because” include since, for, for that, on account of, forthy and for sake.

The opposite of “because” — its antonyms — is even though.

“Because” is a conjunction.

The word “because” comes from French. From Middle English bi cause, literally "by cause" — a fusion of "by" and "cause" modeled on the French phrase par cause. Over time the two words merged into the single conjunction we use today.

“Because” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

All three introduce a reason, but because is the strongest and most direct, putting the emphasis firmly on the cause. Since and as are softer and often introduce a reason the listener already knows. 'Because it's raining' answers 'why?'; 'Since you're here, help me' assumes the reason is understood.

Yes. Starting a sentence with because is perfectly correct, as in 'Because it was late, we left.' The old warning against it exists only to stop incomplete sentences like 'Because I was tired.' As long as you finish the thought with a main clause, it is fine.

Common alternatives include since, as, for, and phrases like due to the fact that, seeing that, or on account of. The best choice depends on tone: because is direct and neutral, while since and as feel lighter and more formal or literary in many sentences.

'We stayed indoors because it was storming.' Here because introduces the reason for staying indoors. Other examples include 'She smiled because she was happy' and 'The road was closed because of the flood,' each linking an outcome to its cause.