Giving Reasons
Adverb Clauses
Adverb clauses show cause and effect relationships. Adverb clauses can either begin a sentence, or end a sentence. If the adverb clause begins the sentence, place a comma after the adverb clause. No comma is necessary if the adverb clause finishes the sentence.
Because
An adverb clause with 'because' provides the reason for the action taken in the main clause. Adverb clauses with 'because' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
His mother had to countersign because his credit was bad.
This item looks suspicious because, as per invoice, the item was priced over $1000.
Since
'Since' has the same meaning as 'because'.
An adverb clause with 'since' provides the reason for the action taken in the main clause. Adverb clauses with 'since' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
You must be alert since this is the time to invest.
Sally stopped the company turnaround since the board of directors decided bankruptcy was the better option.
Prepositions
Because of
Adverb cases beginning with 'because of' are followed by a noun or noun phrase. Adverb clauses with 'because of' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
The market has improved because of the availability of consumer credit.
Your loan has been rejected, because of the consumer credit report.
Due to
Adverb cases beginning with 'due to' are followed is followed by a noun or noun phrase. Adverb clauses with 'due to' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
Due to the lack of needed funds, the company had to lay off ten people
Due to the practical difficulties, the endorser said 'no' to the scheme.