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because

because and because of​

Because is a conjunction. It is used at the beginning of a clause, before a subject and verb. Because of is a two-word preposition, used before a noun or a pronoun. Compare:

  • We were late because it rained. (not … because of it rained.)
    We were late because of the rain. (not … because the rain.)
  • I’m happy because I met you.
    I’m happy because of you.

Position of because-clauses​

Because and its clause can go after or before the main clause.

  • I finished early because I worked fast.
  • Because I worked fast, I finished early.

Because-clauses can sometimes stand alone, especially as answers or after hesitations.

  • ‘Why are you crying?’ ‘Because Jack and I have had an argument.’
  • I don’t think I’ll go to the party … Because I’m feeling a bit tired.

just because … (it) doesn’t mean …​

This is quite a common structure in informal speech.

  • Just because you’re older than me (it) doesn’t mean you can do what you like.
  • Just because I’m your brother (it) doesn’t mean you can keep asking me for money.
note

For because after reason, (see here).

For the differences between because, as, since and for, (see here).