Reason clause: A dependent clause explaining why something happens

A reason clause is a dependent adverbial clause that explains why an event, action, or situation occurs. Common linkers include because, since, as, and now that.

Examples

We stayed inside because it was raining.

The clause gives the reason for staying inside.
Since everyone was ready, the meeting began early.

Since presents a reason assumed to be known or uncontroversial.
Now that the road is open, traffic is moving again.

Now that introduces a changed circumstance that explains the result.

Reason clause vs. reason phrase

Prepositional phrase

The match was cancelled because of the rain.

Because of is followed by a noun phrase.

Reason clause

The match was cancelled because it was raining.

Because introduces a clause with its own subject and finite verb.

Use because + clause but because of + noun phrase or -ing form.

The linker affects emphasis and style

Because gives a direct reason and is common in all styles. Since and as often present background information and may sound less emphatic. An opening reason clause is normally followed by a comma.

Because the lift was broken, we used the stairs.

The opening clause is separated from the main clause by a comma.
We used the stairs as the lift was broken.

As presents the reason as background information.

Common mistakes

We stayed inside because of it was raining.

We stayed inside because it was raining.

Use because, not because of, before a finite clause.

Because the road was closed, so we turned back.

Because the road was closed, we turned back.

Do not normally combine subordinating because with coordinating so in the same relationship.

Quick check

Question 1 of 3

Which expression is a reason clause?

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Definition