Alternatives to ‘Because Of This’: Expanding Your English Vocabulary

Mastering alternatives to common phrases like “because of this” is crucial for enhancing your writing and speaking skills. It allows for more nuanced and sophisticated communication, preventing your language from sounding repetitive.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to various expressions that convey causality, offering learners of all levels the tools to express cause-and-effect relationships with greater precision and style. Whether you’re an ESL student, a seasoned writer, or simply aiming to improve your everyday communication, understanding these alternatives will significantly enrich your linguistic repertoire.

By exploring synonyms and related phrases, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to articulate reasons, consequences, and logical connections in a variety of contexts. This knowledge will empower you to craft clearer, more engaging, and more persuasive arguments.

From formal essays to informal conversations, the ability to choose the most appropriate expression for the situation will make you a more effective communicator. This article will equip you with the necessary knowledge and practice to confidently use a wider range of causal expressions.

Table of Contents

• Definition of “Because Of This” and its Role
• Structural Breakdown of Causal Phrases
• Types and Categories of Alternatives
  • Due To
  • As a Result
  • Therefore
  • Consequently
  • Hence
  • Thus
  • For This Reason
  • On Account Of
  • Owing To
  • In View Of
  • As Such
  • Accordingly
• Examples of Alternative Phrases
• Usage Rules and Considerations
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Definition of “Because Of This” and its Role

“Because of this” is a phrase used to indicate a direct causal relationship between two events or situations. It explicitly states that the second event or situation is a consequence or result of the first.

It belongs to a category of phrases known ascausal conjunctionsorcausal adverbials, which connect clauses or sentences to show cause and effect. The function of “because of this” is to provide a clear and direct link between a cause and its subsequent effect.

Understanding the role of “because of this” and its alternatives is essential for constructing logical arguments and coherent narratives. In academic writing, for example, precise and varied causal language is crucial for presenting research findings and supporting claims with evidence.

In everyday conversation, these phrases help to explain actions, justify decisions, and clarify relationships. The context in which “because of this” is used can range from formal reports to casual conversations, but its core function remains consistent: to establish a cause-and-effect connection.

Structural Breakdown of Causal Phrases

Causal phrases like “because of this” typically consist of two main components: thecauseand theeffect. The cause is the event or situation that initiates the sequence, while the effect is the resulting outcome.

These phrases often act as a bridge between two independent clauses, creating a complex sentence that expresses a clear relationship between the two ideas.

The structure can vary depending on the specific phrase used. Some phrases, like “because of this,” directly introduce the effect, while others, such as “due to,” introduce the cause.

Understanding these structural variations is crucial for using the phrases correctly and effectively. Here’s a breakdown of a typical structure:

[Cause] + [Causal Phrase] + [Effect]

For example:

[The rain was heavy] + [because of this] + [the game was cancelled.]

Alternatively, some phrases can be used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the effect, with the cause following:

[Causal Phrase] + [Effect] + [because of] + [Cause]

For example:

[Therefore] + [the game was cancelled] + [because of] + [the heavy rain.]

Types and Categories of Alternatives

There are numerous alternatives to “because of this,” each with its own nuances and appropriate contexts. Here’s a breakdown of some common categories and examples:

Due To

“Due to” is a prepositional phrase indicating that something is caused by something else. It’s often followed by a noun or noun phrase.

Example: The flight was delayed due to bad weather.

As a Result

“As a result” is an adverbial phrase that introduces the consequence of a preceding action or event. It’s often used to emphasize the direct impact of the cause.

Example: The company invested heavily in marketing, as a result, sales increased significantly.

Therefore

“Therefore” is an adverb that indicates a logical conclusion or inference. It’s often used in formal writing and arguments.

Example: All men are mortal; Socrates is a man; therefore, Socrates is mortal.

Consequently

“Consequently” is similar to “therefore” but often implies a more direct and immediate consequence.

Example: The power outage affected the entire city; consequently, businesses were forced to close.

Hence

“Hence” is a more formal and somewhat archaic synonym for “therefore.” It’s often used in academic or legal contexts.

Example: The data is incomplete; hence, the conclusions are tentative.

Thus

“Thus” indicates that something is happening as a result of something else. It’s a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Example: The experiment was carefully controlled; thus, the results are reliable.

For This Reason

“For this reason” is a phrase that explicitly states the cause of a subsequent action or event. It’s often used to provide a clear justification or explanation.

Example: The evidence was compelling; for this reason, the jury returned a guilty verdict.

On Account Of

“On account of” is a prepositional phrase similar to “due to” but often used when the cause is something negative or undesirable.

Example: The game was postponed on account of the rain.

Owing To

“Owing to” is another prepositional phrase that indicates causation, similar to “due to” and “on account of.”

Example: The project was delayed owing to unforeseen circumstances.

In View Of

“In view of” suggests that something is being considered or taken into account when making a decision or explaining an event.

Example: In view of the recent developments, we have decided to revise our strategy.

As Such

“As such” indicates that something should be treated or considered in a particular way because of its nature or characteristics. It often follows a description or definition.

Example: He is the team captain; as such, he is responsible for motivating the players.

Accordingly

“Accordingly” means “in a way that is appropriate to the particular circumstances.” It implies that an action or decision is being made in response to a specific situation.

Example: The rules were clearly explained; accordingly, everyone followed them.

Examples of Alternative Phrases

The following tables provide examples of how to use these alternative phrases in different contexts. Each table focuses on a specific set of alternatives and offers a variety of sentence structures to illustrate their usage.

Table 1: Using ‘Due To,’ ‘On Account Of,’ and ‘Owing To’

This table illustrates how ‘due to,’ ‘on account of,’ and ‘owing to’ can be used to express causation, focusing on their similarities and subtle differences in connotation.

Phrase	Example Sentence
Due to	The concert was cancelled due to the singer falling ill.
Due to	Due to unforeseen circumstances, the project timeline has been extended.
Due to	Many flights were delayed due to the heavy snowfall.
Due to	The company’s profits declined due to increased competition.
Due to	The road was closed due to a major accident.
Due to	Due to a lack of funding, the program was discontinued.
Due to	The team lost the game due to several key players being injured.
Due to	The meeting was postponed due to the manager’s absence.
Due to	Due to high demand, the product is currently out of stock.
Due to	The plants died due to a lack of water.
On account of	The outdoor event was moved indoors on account of the impending storm.
On account of	On account of his excellent performance, he received a promotion.
On account of	The store was closed early on account of the holiday.
On account of	The research was halted on account of ethical concerns.
On account of	On account of the rising costs, the project was re-evaluated.
On account of	The event was a success on account of careful planning.
On account of	The road was blocked on account of the parade.
On account of	On account of her dedication, she was recognized with an award.
On account of	The library was closed on account of renovations.
On account of	The experiment failed on account of a faulty sensor.
Owing to	The company’s success is owing to its innovative products.
Owing to	Owing to the complexity of the issue, a special committee was formed.
Owing to	The delay was owing to bureaucratic procedures.
Owing to	The high prices are owing to the scarcity of the resource.
Owing to	Owing to a scheduling conflict, the meeting was rescheduled.
Owing to	The positive results are owing to the new treatment.
Owing to	The economic downturn is owing to several factors.
Owing to	Owing to the high level of participation, the event was extended.
Owing to	The error was owing to a miscalculation.
Owing to	The improvements are owing to the team’s hard work.

Table 2: Using ‘As a Result,’ ‘Consequently,’ and ‘Accordingly’

This table demonstrates how ‘as a result,’ ‘consequently,’ and ‘accordingly’ can be employed to show consequences and logical outcomes, highlighting their nuances in emphasis and formality.

Phrase	Example Sentence
As a result	The factory closed down, as a result, many people lost their jobs.
As a result	The storm caused widespread damage; as a result, the city declared a state of emergency.
As a result	He studied diligently; as a result, he aced the exam.
As a result	The company invested in new technology; as a result, productivity increased.
As a result	She missed the bus; as a result, she was late for work.
As a result	The price of oil increased; as a result, transportation costs rose.
As a result	The program was successful; as a result, it was expanded nationwide.
As a result	The company launched a new marketing campaign; as a result, brand awareness grew.
As a result	The government implemented new policies; as a result, the economy improved.
As a result	The team practiced hard; as a result, they won the championship.
Consequently	The river flooded; consequently, the town was evacuated.
Consequently	The interest rates were raised; consequently, borrowing became more expensive.
Consequently	The company failed to adapt to the market changes; consequently, it went bankrupt.
Consequently	He didn’t follow the instructions; consequently, he made a mistake.
Consequently	The traffic was heavy; consequently, we arrived late.
Consequently	The budget was cut; consequently, several projects were cancelled.
Consequently	The regulations were tightened; consequently, compliance costs increased.
Consequently	The demand increased; consequently, production was ramped up.
Consequently	The price decreased; consequently, sales increased.
Consequently	The system crashed; consequently, data was lost.
Accordingly	The plan was approved; accordingly, we proceeded with the implementation.
Accordingly	The rules were explained; accordingly, everyone followed them.
Accordingly	The data was analyzed; accordingly, the report was written.
Accordingly	The situation was assessed; accordingly, the appropriate measures were taken.
Accordingly	The requirements were defined; accordingly, the system was designed.
Accordingly	The feedback was collected; accordingly, the product was improved.
Accordingly	The budget was allocated; accordingly, the funds were distributed.
Accordingly	The schedule was planned; accordingly, the tasks were assigned.
Accordingly	The resources were gathered; accordingly, the project was launched.
Accordingly	The risks were identified; accordingly, the mitigation strategies were developed.

Table 3: Using ‘Therefore,’ ‘Hence,’ and ‘Thus’

This table explores the usage of ‘therefore,’ ‘hence,’ and ‘thus,’ emphasizing their role in formal reasoning and logical deduction. It illustrates their suitability for academic and professional contexts.

Phrase	Example Sentence
Therefore	All dogs are mammals; Fido is a dog; therefore, Fido is a mammal.
Therefore	The hypothesis was supported by the data; therefore, we can conclude that…
Therefore	The company’s expenses exceeded its revenue; therefore, it reported a loss.
Therefore	The evidence is overwhelming; therefore, the defendant is guilty.
Therefore	The theorem has been proven; therefore, it can be used in further calculations.
Therefore	The system is unreliable; therefore, it needs to be replaced.
Therefore	The plan is not feasible; therefore, it should be abandoned.
Therefore	The project is behind schedule; therefore, more resources are needed.
Therefore	The demand is high; therefore, production should be increased.
Therefore	The results are promising; therefore, further research is warranted.
Hence	The data is incomplete; hence, the conclusions are tentative.
Hence	The argument is flawed; hence, it is not convincing.
Hence	The premise is false; hence, the conclusion is invalid.
Hence	The evidence is circumstantial; hence, it is not conclusive.
Hence	The information is unreliable; hence, it should be treated with caution.
Hence	The methodology is questionable; hence, the results are suspect.
Hence	The interpretation is biased; hence, it is not objective.
Hence	The analysis is superficial; hence, it is not insightful.
Hence	The reasoning is circular; hence, it is not persuasive.
Hence	The approach is flawed; hence, it is not effective.
Thus	The experiment was carefully controlled; thus, the results are reliable.
Thus	The problem was thoroughly investigated; thus, a solution was found.
Thus	The system was rigorously tested; thus, it is now stable.
Thus	The process was optimized; thus, efficiency was improved.
Thus	The resources were effectively managed; thus, the project was completed on time.
Thus	The risks were proactively mitigated; thus, the project was successful.
Thus	The goals were clearly defined; thus, everyone worked towards them effectively.
Thus	The strategy was well-executed; thus, the objectives were achieved.
Thus	The innovation was well-received; thus, the company gained a competitive advantage.
Thus	The collaboration was fruitful; thus, the results were outstanding.

Table 4: Using ‘For This Reason’ and ‘In View Of’

This table illustrates the usage of ‘for this reason’ and ‘in view of,’ focusing on providing explanations and considering contextual factors in decision-making processes.

Phrase	Example Sentence
For this reason	The evidence was compelling; for this reason, the jury returned a guilty verdict.
For this reason	The project was over budget; for this reason, it was discontinued.
For this reason	The performance was sub-par; for this reason, the employee was terminated.
For this reason	The product was defective; for this reason, it was recalled.
For this reason	The situation was untenable; for this reason, he resigned.
For this reason	The findings were conclusive; for this reason, the policy was changed.
For this reason	The results were disappointing; for this reason, the experiment was repeated.
For this reason	The conditions were unfavorable; for this reason, the event was postponed.
For this reason	The risk was too high; for this reason, the investment was declined.
For this reason	The opportunity was unique; for this reason, it was seized.
In view of	In view of the recent developments, we have decided to revise our strategy.
In view of	In view of the market trends, we are adjusting our pricing.
In view of	In view of the customer feedback, we are improving our product.
In view of	In view of the financial constraints, we are reducing our spending.
In view of	In view of the environmental concerns, we are adopting sustainable practices.
In view of	In view of the technological advancements, we are upgrading our systems.
In view of	In view of the competitive landscape, we are differentiating our offerings.
In view of	In view of the regulatory requirements, we are ensuring compliance.
In view of	In view of the operational challenges, we are streamlining our processes.
In view of	In view of the strategic priorities, we are allocating our resources.

Table 5: Using ‘As Such’

This table provides examples of how ‘as such’ is used to indicate the role, nature, or consequence of something, often following a definition or description.

Phrase	Example Sentence
As such	He is the team captain; as such, he is responsible for motivating the players.
As such	She is a leading expert in the field; as such, her opinion is highly valued.
As such	The company is a market leader; as such, it has a responsibility to innovate.
As such	The project is critical to the company’s success; as such, it requires dedicated resources.
As such	The role is highly demanding; as such, it requires a high level of commitment.
As such	The technology is cutting-edge; as such, it requires specialized training.
As such	The information is confidential; as such, it should be treated with utmost care.
As such	The task is complex; as such, it requires a collaborative effort.
As such	The opportunity is unique; as such, it should be carefully considered.
As such	The challenge is significant; as such, it requires innovative solutions.

Usage Rules and Considerations

While these alternatives share a common purpose, their usage is governed by specific rules and considerations. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective communication.

• Formality: Phrases like “hence” and “thus” are generally more formal than “as a result” or “due to.” Choose the appropriate level of formality based on the context and audience.
• Emphasis: Some phrases, like “consequently,” emphasize the immediate impact of the cause, while others, like “owing to,” focus on the underlying reason.
• Placement: The placement of the phrase within the sentence can also affect its meaning and impact. For example, “therefore” often comes at the beginning of the clause, while “due to” typically follows the main verb.
• Clarity: Ensure that the causal relationship is clear and unambiguous. Avoid using overly complex or convoluted language that could confuse the reader or listener.
• Subject-Verb Agreement: Pay attention to subject-verb agreement when using these phrases. The verb in the clause following the causal phrase should agree with its subject in number and person.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learners often make mistakes when using these alternative phrases. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
Due to of the rain, the game was cancelled.	Due to the rain, the game was cancelled.	“Due to” is a preposition and should be followed by a noun phrase, not “of.”
As result, the sales increased.	As a result, the sales increased.	The correct phrase is “as a result,” not “as result.”
Therefore, I am tired because I studied late.	I am tired; therefore, I studied late.	The order of cause and effect is reversed. The studying came before the tiredness.
Consequently of the accident, the road was closed.	Consequently, the road was closed.	“Consequently” is an adverb and doesn’t need “of.”
The reason is owing to the weather.	The reason is due to the weather. / The delay is owing to the weather.	“Owing to” is better used to introduce the cause of a delay or problem, not as a direct substitute for “the reason is.”

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of these alternative phrases with the following exercises.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences using the most appropriate alternative to “because of this.”

Question	Answer
The company’s profits declined __________ increased competition.	due to
The storm caused widespread damage; __________, the city declared a state of emergency.	as a result
All men are mortal; Socrates is a man; __________, Socrates is mortal.	therefore
The river flooded; __________, the town was evacuated.	consequently
The data is incomplete; __________, the conclusions are tentative.	hence
The experiment was carefully controlled; __________, the results are reliable.	thus
The evidence was compelling; __________ the jury returned a guilty verdict.	for this reason
The game was postponed __________ the rain.	on account of
The project was delayed __________ unforeseen circumstances.	owing to
__________ the recent developments, we have decided to revise our strategy.	in view of

Exercise 2: Sentence Rewriting

Rewrite the following sentences using the alternative phrases provided.

Original Sentence	Rewritten Sentence (using provided phrase)
The flight was cancelled because of the storm. (Due to)	Due to the storm, the flight was cancelled.
She studied hard, and as a result, she got a good grade. (Consequently)	She studied hard; consequently, she got a good grade.
The premise is false; therefore, the conclusion is invalid. (Hence)	The premise is false; hence, the conclusion is invalid.
The process was optimized, and thus, efficiency was improved. (Accordingly)	The process was optimized; accordingly, efficiency was improved.
He is the team captain; because of this, he is responsible for motivating the players. (As such)	He is the team captain; as such, he is responsible for motivating the players.
Because of the heavy rain, the roads are flooded. (Owing to)	Owing to the heavy rain, the roads are flooded.
The company made a profit; because of this, they gave bonuses. (As a result)	The company made a profit; as a result, they gave bonuses.
Because of her dedication, she was recognized with an award. (On account of)	On account of her dedication, she was recognized with an award.
Because of the evidence, we believe he is guilty. (Therefore)	The evidence is clear; therefore, we believe he is guilty.
Due to the circumstances, we had to make changes. (In view of)	In view of the circumstances, we had to make changes.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, it’s important to understand the subtle nuances and contextual variations of these phrases. Here are some advanced topics to consider:

• Distinguishing between formal and informal usage: Some phrases are more appropriate for formal writing, while others are better suited for informal conversation.
• Understanding the connotations of different phrases: Each phrase carries its own subtle connotations and implications.
• Using these phrases to create complex and nuanced arguments: Mastering these phrases allows you to construct more sophisticated and persuasive arguments.
• Combining multiple causal phrases in a single sentence: This can add depth and complexity to your writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about using alternatives to “because of this.”

1. Is “due to” interchangeable with “because of”?

   While “due to” and “because of” are often used interchangeably, “due to” is technically more correct when it modifies a noun, while “because of” modifies a verb. However, in modern usage, this distinction is often blurred, and both are generally accepted.

2. When should I use “hence” instead of “therefore”?