The word “because” is a subordinating conjunction in grammar. It introduces a dependent (subordinate) clause that explains the reason for the action or situation in the main clause.
General Rule:
Main Clause + because + Reason Clause
Examples:
She stayed home because she was sick.
I’m leaving now because I have an early meeting.
You can also reverse the order:
Because + Reason Clause + , + Main Clause
Because she was sick, she stayed home.
Because I was busy, I went to work early.
Remember: When the “because” clause comes first, use a comma before the main clause.
Common Error: Sentence Fragment
Avoid writing just the “because” clause as a complete sentence.
Incorrect: I didn’t go. Because I was tired.
Correct: I didn’t go because I was tired.
Summary:
“Because” connects a reason to a result.
It begins a dependent clause (it cannot stand alone).
No comma if “because” comes after the main clause.
Use a comma if the “because” clause comes first.