Alternatives to “This Is Because”: Expanding Your English

Mastering diverse ways to express causality is crucial for effective communication in English. Relying solely on “this is because” can make your writing and speech sound repetitive and simplistic.

This article explores a wide range of alternative phrases and sentence structures that convey cause and effect with greater nuance and sophistication. Whether you’re an ESL student, a professional writer, or simply someone looking to enhance their language skills, understanding these alternatives will significantly improve your ability to articulate reasons and explanations clearly and persuasively.

This guide provides definitions, structural breakdowns, numerous examples, usage rules, and practice exercises to help you confidently incorporate these alternatives into your vocabulary. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with a versatile toolkit for expressing causality in various contexts, allowing you to communicate with precision and style.

Definition: Expressing Causality
Structural Breakdown of Causal Sentences
Types and Categories of Alternative Phrases
Examples of Alternatives in Use
Usage Rules and Considerations
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Practice Exercises
Advanced Topics: Nuance and Style
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

Definition: Expressing Causality

Causality, in grammar, refers to the relationship between two events or ideas where one (the cause) makes the other (the effect) happen. The phrase “this is because” is a simple and direct way to indicate this relationship, but its overuse can lead to monotonous writing.

Replacing it with more varied expressions adds depth, clarity, and sophistication to your communication.

Expressing causality accurately is essential for conveying logical arguments, explaining processes, and providing justifications. Different phrases offer subtle variations in meaning and formality, allowing you to tailor your language to the specific context and audience.

Understanding these nuances is key to effective communication.

The alternatives to “this is because” can be classified based on their formality, the specific type of causal relationship they emphasize, and their grammatical structure. Some phrases are more suitable for formal writing, while others are better suited for casual conversation.

Some emphasize the reason, while others focus on the result.

Structural Breakdown of Causal Sentences

Causal sentences typically consist of two main parts: the effect (or result) and the cause (or reason). These parts can be arranged in different orders, affecting the emphasis of the sentence.

Understanding the structural elements allows you to use alternatives to “this is because” more effectively.

Structure 1: Effect + Connector + Cause

This structure presents the effect first, followed by a connecting word or phrase and then the cause. Examples include:

The game was canceled due to the rain.
She was late because of the traffic.
He succeeded as a result of hard work.

Structure 2: Cause + Connector + Effect

This structure presents the cause first, followed by a connecting word or phrase and then the effect. Examples include:

Since it was raining, the game was canceled.
Because there was traffic, she was late.
As he worked hard, he succeeded.

Structure 3: Cause implied in the Effect

Sometimes, the causal relationship is implied within the sentence structure itself, without a direct connector. Examples include:

The rain caused the game to be canceled.
The traffic delayed her arrival.
Hard work led to his success.

Types and Categories of Alternative Phrases

There are many ways to express causality in English besides “this is because.” These alternatives can be categorized based on their level of formality, their emphasis on specific aspects of the causal relationship, and their grammatical structure.

Formal Alternatives

Formal alternatives are suitable for academic writing, professional communication, and other situations where a high level of formality is required. These phrases often use more complex vocabulary and sentence structures.

Due to the fact that: Emphasizes a factual reason.
In light of: Indicates consideration of a particular circumstance.
On account of: Similar to “because of,” but more formal.
As a consequence of: Highlights the result or outcome.
By virtue of: Indicates something is a result of a specific quality or characteristic.
Inasmuch as: Means “to the extent that” or “since.”
The reason being that: A more elaborate way to introduce a reason.

Informal Alternatives

Informal alternatives are appropriate for casual conversations, personal emails, and other situations where a relaxed tone is acceptable. These phrases are often shorter and more common in everyday speech.

Because: The most common and versatile alternative.
Since: Implies a reason that is already known or understood.
As: Similar to “since,” but can also indicate simultaneity.
Seeing as: A more colloquial version of “since.”
‘Cause: A shortened, very informal version of “because.”
That’s why: Indicates a direct consequence.

Alternatives for Specific Reasons

These alternatives are used when you want to emphasize the specific reason or justification behind an event or action. They often provide more detail and explanation.

For the reason that: Highlights the explanation being provided.
On the grounds that: Indicates a legal or formal justification.
In view of the fact that: Similar to “due to the fact that,” but emphasizes consideration.
Considering that: Takes into account a particular factor.
Given that: Similar to “considering that,” but often used for assumptions.

Result-Oriented Alternatives

These alternatives focus on the outcome or consequence of an action or event. They emphasize the impact or effect of the cause.

Therefore: Indicates a logical conclusion or result.
Consequently: Similar to “therefore,” but often implies a more significant consequence.
As a result: Directly emphasizes the outcome.
Thus: A more formal version of “therefore.”
Hence: Similar to “thus,” but often used in mathematical or logical contexts.
For this reason: Highlights the preceding cause as the basis for the result.

Examples of Alternatives in Use

The following tables provide examples of how to use the different alternatives to “this is because” in various contexts. Each table focuses on a specific category of alternatives, with numerous examples to illustrate their usage.

Formal Examples

This table showcases formal alternatives to “this is because,” suitable for academic or professional contexts. Notice the complex sentence structures and sophisticated vocabulary.

Original Sentence (using “This is because”)	Alternative Sentence
The project was delayed. This is because of unforeseen circumstances.	The project was delayed due to the fact that unforeseen circumstances arose.
The company reported lower profits. This is because of increased operating costs.	The company reported lower profits on account of increased operating costs.
The research was inconclusive. This is because of limitations in the methodology.	The research was inconclusive in light of limitations in the methodology.
The policy was implemented. This is because of the need for greater efficiency.	The policy was implemented as a consequence of the need for greater efficiency.
He was selected for the leadership role. This is because of his exceptional skills.	He was selected for the leadership role by virtue of his exceptional skills.
The argument is valid. This is because the premises are true.	The argument is valid inasmuch as the premises are true.
The experiment failed. This is because of contamination.	The experiment failed, the reason being that there was contamination.
Attendance was low. This is because of the inclement weather.	Attendance was low owing to the inclement weather.
The report was rejected. This is because of inaccuracies.	The report was rejected attributable to inaccuracies.
The proposal was accepted. This is because of its innovative approach.	The proposal was accepted predicated on its innovative approach.
The contract was terminated. This is because of non-compliance.	The contract was terminated subsequent to non-compliance.
The findings are significant. This is because they challenge existing theories.	The findings are significant in that they challenge existing theories.
The law was enacted. This is because of public demand.	The law was enacted pursuant to public demand.
The investigation was launched. This is because of credible evidence.	The investigation was launched based on credible evidence.
The investment was profitable. This is because of strategic planning.	The investment was profitable stemming from strategic planning.
The article was published. This is because of its originality.	The article was published on the strength of its originality.
The project succeeded. This is because of collaboration.	The project succeeded as a result of effective collaboration.
The decision was reversed. This is because of new information.	The decision was reversed following the emergence of new information.
The application was denied. This is because of incomplete documentation.	The application was denied in view of incomplete documentation.
The program was effective. This is because of consistent support.	The program was effective thanks to consistent support.

Informal Examples

This table provides examples of informal alternatives to “this is because,” suitable for everyday conversations and casual writing. These phrases are simpler and more direct.

Original Sentence (using “This is because”)	Alternative Sentence
I’m tired. This is because I stayed up late.	I’m tired because I stayed up late.
She’s happy. This is because she got a good grade.	She’s happy since she got a good grade.
We’re staying inside. This is because it’s raining.	We’re staying inside as it’s raining.
I can’t go out. This is because I have to work.	I can’t go out seeing as I have to work.
He’s upset. This is because he lost the game.	He’s upset ’cause he lost the game.
The store is closed. This is because it’s Sunday.	The store is closed. That’s why I couldn’t buy anything.
I’m hungry. This is because I skipped breakfast.	I’m hungry ’cause I skipped breakfast.
The car broke down. This is because I didn’t get it serviced.	The car broke down since I didn’t get it serviced.
I’m late. This is because of the traffic.	I’m late because of the traffic.
She’s smiling. This is because she got a surprise.	She’s smiling as she got a surprise.
We’re going to the beach. This is because the weather is nice.	We’re going to the beach since the weather is nice.
I’m learning English. This is because I want to travel.	I’m learning English ’cause I want to travel.
He’s studying hard. This is because he has an exam.	He’s studying hard because he has an exam.
She’s cooking dinner. This is because we’re having guests.	She’s cooking dinner as we’re having guests.
They’re celebrating. This is because they won the competition.	They’re celebrating ’cause they won the competition.
I’m wearing a coat. This is because it’s cold outside.	I’m wearing a coat since it’s cold outside.
He’s feeling better. This is because he took medicine.	He’s feeling better because he took medicine.
She’s buying flowers. This is because it’s her anniversary.	She’s buying flowers. That’s why she’s so happy.
We’re watching a movie. This is because we’re bored.	We’re watching a movie ’cause we’re bored.
I’m drinking coffee. This is because I need energy.	I’m drinking coffee since I need energy.

Specific Reason Examples

This table demonstrates the use of alternatives that emphasize the specific reason or justification behind an event or action. These are useful for providing detailed explanations.

Original Sentence (using “This is because”)	Alternative Sentence
The application was rejected. This is because it was incomplete.	The application was rejected for the reason that it was incomplete.
The defendant was acquitted. This is because there was insufficient evidence.	The defendant was acquitted on the grounds that there was insufficient evidence.
The decision was postponed. This is because of the ongoing investigation.	The decision was postponed in view of the fact that there is an ongoing investigation.
The project was approved. This is because it met all the requirements.	The project was approved considering that it met all the requirements.
The assumption is incorrect. This is because the data is flawed.	The assumption is incorrect given that the data is flawed.
The product was recalled. This is because of safety concerns.	The product was recalled for the reason that there were safety concerns.
The protest was organized. This is because of the new policy.	The protest was organized on the grounds that the new policy was unfair.
The meeting was canceled. This is because of a scheduling conflict.	The meeting was canceled in view of the fact that there was a scheduling conflict.
The experiment was repeated. This is because the initial results were inconclusive.	The experiment was repeated considering that the initial results were inconclusive.
The budget was increased. This is because of rising costs.	The budget was increased given that costs were rising.
The study was undertaken. This is because there was a gap in the research.	The study was undertaken for the reason that there was a gap in the research.
The appeal was lodged. This is because the decision was unjust.	The appeal was lodged on the grounds that the decision was unjust.
The event was relocated. This is because of the weather forecast.	The event was relocated in view of the fact that the weather forecast was unfavorable.
The strategy was revised. This is because the market changed.	The strategy was revised considering that the market had changed.
The claim was denied. This is because the evidence was weak.	The claim was denied given that the evidence was weak.
The investigation continues. This is because new leads emerged.	The investigation continues for the reason that new leads emerged.
The law was challenged. This is because it violated rights.	The law was challenged on the grounds that it violated fundamental rights.
The project was extended. This is because of unforeseen delays.	The project was extended in view of the fact that there were unforeseen delays.
The plan was adjusted. This is because of feedback.	The plan was adjusted considering that the feedback was critical.
The conclusion is tentative. This is because the sample size is small.	The conclusion is tentative given that the sample size is small.

Result-Oriented Examples

This table focuses on alternatives that emphasize the outcome or consequence of an action or event. These are useful for highlighting the impact of the cause.

Original Sentence (using “This is because”)	Alternative Sentence
The temperature dropped. This is because a cold front arrived, so everyone put on coats.	The temperature dropped; therefore, everyone put on coats.
The storm was severe. This is because many trees fell down, so power outages occurred.	The storm was severe; consequently, power outages occurred.
The company invested in training. This is because employee skills improved, so productivity increased.	The company invested in training; as a result, productivity increased.
The research was thorough. This is because the findings were reliable, so the study was published.	The research was thorough; thus, the study was published.
The conditions were favorable. This is because the crops thrived, so the harvest was abundant.	The conditions were favorable; hence, the harvest was abundant.
The prices increased. This is because demand was high, so sales declined.	The prices increased; therefore, sales declined.
The rules were strict. This is because compliance was low, so penalties were imposed.	The rules were strict; consequently, penalties were imposed.
The budget was cut. This is because projects were delayed, so progress slowed.	The budget was cut; as a result, progress slowed.
The evidence was strong. This is because the suspect was convicted, so justice was served.	The evidence was strong; thus, justice was served.
The plan was effective. This is because goals were achieved, so success was celebrated.	The plan was effective; hence, success was celebrated.
The market crashed. This is because investors panicked, so fortunes were lost.	The market crashed; therefore, fortunes were lost.
The policy changed. This is because complaints increased, so reforms were implemented.	The policy changed; consequently, reforms were implemented.
The technology advanced. This is because innovations emerged, so possibilities expanded.	The technology advanced; as a result, possibilities expanded.
The investigation concluded. This is because the truth was revealed, so closure was achieved.	The investigation concluded; thus, closure was achieved.
The strategy failed. This is because objectives were unmet, so changes were needed.	The strategy failed; hence, changes were needed.
The weather improved. This is because the sun emerged, so spirits lifted.	The weather improved; therefore, spirits lifted.
The program succeeded. This is because participation increased, so benefits were realized.	The program succeeded; consequently, benefits were realized.
The system crashed. This is because errors occurred, so data was lost.	The system crashed; as a result, data was lost.
The discussion ended. This is because agreement was reached, so action was taken.	The discussion ended; thus, action was taken.
The project finished. This is because effort was sustained, so rewards were earned.	The project finished; hence, rewards were earned.

Usage Rules and Considerations

While the alternatives to “this is because” offer greater variety, it’s important to use them correctly. Here are some key usage rules and considerations:

Formality: Choose alternatives that match the formality of the context. Use formal phrases in academic and professional settings, and informal phrases in casual conversations.
Emphasis: Select alternatives that emphasize the specific aspect of the causal relationship you want to highlight. Do you want to focus on the reason, the result, or both?
Grammatical Structure: Ensure that the alternative phrase fits grammatically into the sentence. Some phrases require specific sentence structures.
Clarity: Prioritize clarity and avoid using overly complex or obscure phrases that could confuse the reader or listener.
Word Choice: Pay attention to the connotations of different words. Some words may have subtle nuances that affect the overall meaning of the sentence.

For example, using “due to” and “because of” can be tricky. Traditionally, “due to” should only be used after a linking verb (e.g., is, are, was, were), while “because of” can be used more broadly.

However, this rule is often relaxed in modern usage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced English speakers sometimes make mistakes when using alternatives to “this is because.” Here are some common errors to watch out for:

Incorrect Sentence	Correct Sentence	Explanation
The reason he was late is because the traffic.	The reason he was late is that there was traffic.	Avoid using “because” after “the reason is.” Use “that” instead.
Due to the rain, the game was canceled because of it.	Due to the rain, the game was canceled. / The game was canceled because of the rain.	Avoid redundancy by not using multiple causal phrases in the same sentence.
Since of the traffic, I was late.	Because of the traffic, I was late.	“Since” cannot be used with “of” in this context.
As a result of he worked hard, he succeeded.	As a result of working hard, he succeeded. / Because he worked hard, he succeeded.	“As a result of” should be followed by a noun phrase or gerund.
That’s why because I was tired.	That’s why I was tired. / Because I was tired.	Avoid using “that’s why” and “because” together. They are redundant.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of the alternatives to “this is because” with the following exercises. Choose the best alternative to complete each sentence.

Question	Answer
1. The flight was delayed ______ bad weather.	due to
2. ______ he studied hard, he passed the exam.	Since
3. The company’s profits decreased ______ increased competition.	because of
4. She was promoted ______ her excellent performance.	as a result of
5. The meeting was canceled ______ a scheduling conflict.	owing to
6. I’m staying home tonight ______ I’m feeling tired.	because
7. The project was successful ______ the team’s dedication.	thanks to
8. The product was recalled ______ safety concerns.	for the reason that
9. He was fired ______ his poor attendance.	on account of
10. The event was postponed ______ unforeseen circumstances.	in light of

Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using an alternative to “this is because.”

Original Sentence	Rewritten Sentence
1. The store was closed. This is because it was a holiday.	The store was closed since it was a holiday.
2. I’m not going to the party. This is because I have to work.	I’m not going to the party as I have to work.
3. She was late. This is because of the traffic.	She was late because of the traffic.
4. The project failed. This is because of poor planning.	The project failed due to poor planning.
5. He succeeded. This is because he worked hard.	He succeeded as a result of working hard.
6. The presentation was effective. This is because it was well-organized.	The presentation was effective owing to its excellent organization.
7. The experiment failed. This is because of contamination.	The experiment failed, the reason being that there was contamination.
8. I am happy. This is because I received a promotion.	I am happy since I received a promotion.
9. We are staying inside. This is because of the storm.	We are staying inside due to the storm.
10. They won the game. This is because they practiced hard.	They won the game as a result of their consistent practice.

Exercise 3: Combine the following pairs of sentences into one using an appropriate alternative to “this is because.”

Original Sentences	Combined Sentence
1. The rain was heavy. The game was canceled.	The game was canceled due to the heavy rain.
2. He studied diligently. He received a good grade.	Since he studied diligently, he received a good grade.
3. The company invested in training. Employee skills improved.	As a result of the company’s investment in training, employee skills improved.
4. She was feeling unwell. She stayed home from work.	Because she was feeling unwell, she stayed home from work.
5. The traffic was heavy. I arrived late to the meeting.	Because of the heavy traffic, I arrived late to the meeting.
6. The policy was changed. There were numerous complaints.	The policy was changed due to the numerous complaints.
7. The experiment was successful. The hypothesis was proven.	As a result of the experiment’s success, the hypothesis was proven.
8. The team collaborated effectively. The project was completed on time.	Since the team collaborated effectively, the project was completed on time.
9. The market crashed. Investors lost a lot of money.	Because the market crashed, investors lost a lot of money.
10. The weather was beautiful. We decided to go for a walk.	Because the weather was beautiful, we decided to go for a walk.

Advanced Topics: Nuance and Style

Beyond the basic alternatives, advanced learners can explore more nuanced and stylistic ways to express causality. This involves understanding the subtle differences in meaning between similar phrases and using them strategically to create a desired effect.

For example, consider the difference between “owing to” and “attributable to.” While both indicate a cause, “owing to” often implies a more direct and immediate cause, whereas “attributable to” suggests a more indirect or contributory cause. Understanding these subtleties allows you to fine-tune your writing and convey precise meanings.

Another advanced technique is to use implied causality, where the causal relationship is not explicitly stated but is suggested through the choice of words and sentence structure. This can add a layer of sophistication and subtlety to your writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about alternatives to “this is because”:

Is it always better to avoid using “this is because”?
Not always. “This is because” is a perfectly acceptable phrase, especially in simple explanations. However, overusing it can make your writing or speech sound repetitive. Varying your language with alternatives demonstrates a broader command of English.
What’s the difference between “due to” and “because of”?
Traditionally, “due to” should only follow a linking verb (e.g., “The cancellation was due to rain”). “Because of” can be used more broadly (e.g., “The game was canceled because of the rain”). However, this rule is often relaxed in modern English, and “due to” is increasingly used in all contexts.
When should I use formal alternatives?
Use formal alternatives in academic writing, professional communication, and other situations where a high level of formality is required. These phrases often use more complex vocabulary and sentence structures.
Are there any alternatives that I should completely avoid?
Avoid overly colloquial or slang terms in formal contexts. Also, be careful with phrases that are grammatically incorrect or ambiguous.
How can I improve my ability to use these alternatives correctly?
Practice, practice, practice! Read widely, pay attention to how different writers use causal phrases, and try incorporating them into your own writing and speaking. Ask for feedback from native English speakers or language teachers.
Is it correct to say “The reason is because…”?
No, it is generally considered incorrect. “The reason is that…” is the preferred construction. Using “because” after “the reason is” is redundant.
Can I use “since” and “as” interchangeably with “because”?
While “since” and “as” can often be used similarly to “because,” they also carry slightly different connotations. “Since” often implies that

the reason is already known or understood, while “as” can sometimes indicate simultaneity or a less direct causal relationship. Consider the context carefully when choosing between these words.
Are there any alternatives that are more suitable for specific types of writing?
Yes, certain alternatives are more appropriate for different writing styles. For example, in scientific writing, you might use phrases like “as a consequence of” or “resulting from” to maintain objectivity. In persuasive writing, you might use phrases like “for this reason” or “therefore” to strengthen your argument.
How can I ensure that my writing doesn’t sound too repetitive when using causal phrases?
To avoid repetition, vary the sentence structure and the type of causal phrase you use. Instead of always starting with the cause, try starting with the effect and then introducing the cause. Also, use a mix of formal and informal alternatives to keep your writing engaging.
What are some common misspellings or grammatical errors to watch out for when using these alternatives?
Pay close attention to the correct spelling of phrases like “due to,” “owing to,” and “as a result of.” Also, be careful with subject-verb agreement when using phrases like “the reason is that.” Finally, ensure that the causal phrase you choose fits grammatically into the sentence.

Conclusion

By mastering the alternatives to “this is because,” you can significantly enhance your ability to express causality in English with greater precision, clarity, and style. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, giving a presentation, or simply engaging in a casual conversation, having a diverse toolkit of causal phrases will allow you to communicate more effectively and persuasively.

Remember to consider the formality of the context, the specific aspect of the causal relationship you want to emphasize, and the grammatical structure of the sentence when choosing an alternative. With practice and attention to detail, you can confidently incorporate these alternatives into your vocabulary and elevate your language skills to the next level.