10 Formal Ways to Say “This Is Because”
In writing or speaking, especially in formal situations, it’s important to explain why things happen or why we do certain things. One common way to do this is by saying “This is because.”
However, using the same phrase over and over can get boring and repetitive. This article lists 10 formal alternatives to “this is because,” helping you make your communication clearer and more varied.
Is It Formal to Say “This Is Because”?
Yes, it is generally formal to say “This is because.” This phrase commonly appears in academic writing, formal presentations, and professional settings. It serves as a bridge to introduce the reason or cause behind a statement or observation.
Here’s an example:
The project was a success, this is because of the dedicated team efforts and thorough research.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of using this phrase.
Pros:
- It clearly introduces a reason or explanation.
- Works well in formal settings.
- Useful for structured writing or speaking.
Cons:
- Can be overused, making writing or speech seem repetitive.
- May not fit well in more casual or creative contexts.
Sometimes, someone might want to use an alternative phrase to “this is because.” This can help to vary language and keep the audience’s interest. Using synonyms or different expressions can also make writing or speech sound more dynamic and engaging.
10 Other Ways to Say “This Is Because”
Exploring alternatives can add variety to your language. Here are ten formal ways to express the same idea as “this is because.”
- Due to the fact that
- As a result of
- On account of
- Owing to
- Given that
- In light of
- Attributable to
- By virtue of
- On the grounds of
- Thanks to
1. Due to the fact that
This phrase is a close formal synonym for “this is because.” It’s used to introduce a direct reason or cause for something. However, it can feel a bit wordy compared to the original phrase.
We recommend using “due to the fact that” in written reports or documents where a formal tone is needed. It’s especially useful when you want to emphasize the reasoning behind a statement.
Here are two examples:
The experiment failed, due to the fact that proper procedures were not followed.
She was late, due to the fact that there was heavy traffic.
2. As a result of
“As a result of” shifts the focus slightly to the outcome of a situation. It’s a formal alternative that is commonly used in professional writing. It slightly differs from “this is because” by highlighting the effect before stating the cause.
This alternative is better suited when the emphasis is on the outcomes of actions or events. It works well in reports, presentations, and documents where the consequences are as important as the reasons.
Examples:
The company's profits increased, as a result of improved marketing strategies.
The roads were slippery, as a result of the overnight frost.
3. On account of
“On account of” is another formal synonym that is used to explain reasons or causes. It’s straightforward and less wordy than some other alternatives.
This phrase is particularly suited to formal documents and speeches where brevity and clarity are important. It’s a good choice when the causal relationship is straightforward.
Examples:
The event was postponed, on account of rain.
Schools were closed, on account of the snowstorm.
4. Owing to
“Owing to” is a concise, formal alternative that conveys a direct cause-effect relationship. It is similar to “because of” but maintains a more formal tone.
“Owing to” is particularly effective in formal writing where space is limited, such as in executive summaries or policy documents. It succinctly links causes with their effects without extra words.
Examples:
The conference was cancelled, owing to lack of interest.
He arrived early, owing to catching the first train.
5. Given that
“Given that” introduces a precondition or a rationale in a formal and sometimes a slightly more subjective manner. It’s akin to saying “Taking into consideration that.”
Use “given that” when you’re laying out conditions or reasons that are assumed to be known or accepted by the audience. It’s great for arguments or discussions where you’re building upon established facts or common understanding.
Examples:
The team decided to postpone the project, given that resources were currently limited.
It's not surprising she won the award, given that her performance has been outstanding.
6. In light of
“In light of” is a polished, formal way to introduce information that has influenced a decision or viewpoint. It suggests that the reasoning provided is a significant factor.
This alternative shines in discussions, reports, and presentations where the intent is to show thoughtful consideration of factors or events leading to a conclusion. It’s especially useful when these factors are recent or reveal new insights.
Examples:
In light of recent events, the committee has decided to review its policies.
The project's timeline was extended, in light of the unexpected delays.
7. Attributable to
“Attributable to” is technically precise and carries a formal tone, ideal for scientific or analytical writing. It points directly to causation, often implying a clearer, more defined relationship than “this is because.”
It’s best used when you want to explicitly state that one thing is a direct cause of another, such as in research findings or causal analyses in formal reports.
Examples:
The decrease in pollution levels is attributable to the new environmental policies.
The outbreak was quickly contained, attributable to the prompt response by health services.
8. By virtue of
“By virtue of” implies a cause-and-effect relationship through the inherent qualities or conditions of something. It’s a formal and somewhat sophisticated way to show why something occurred.
This phrase works well in legal, academic, and professional contexts where you’re citing underlying principles or inherent characteristics as reasons for outcomes.
Examples:
The athlete won the championship, by virtue of hard work and dedication.
The law was enacted, by virtue of necessity.
9. On the grounds of
“On the grounds of” is used to cite specific reasons or evidence supporting a decision or belief. It’s a formal phrase that’s often used in legal and policy-related discussions.
Opt for this alternative when the justification of an action or judgment is based on specific, usually solid, grounds. It’s appropriate for situations where you need to underscore the legitimacy of reasoning.
Examples:
He was acquitted, on the grounds of insufficient evidence.
The proposal was accepted, on the grounds of its potential benefits.
10. Thanks to
“Thanks to” is somewhat less formal than other alternatives but still acceptable in many professional settings. It conveys gratitude or positive acknowledgment of a cause or reason.
This expression is well-suited when a positive outcome or a favorable cause is to be highlighted. It adds a tone of appreciation, making it great for acknowledgments or when citing beneficial contributions.
Examples:
The project was completed on time, thanks to the team's hard work.
Her recovery was swift, thanks to the excellent medical care she received.
Final Thoughts
Changing up the way you explain reasons in your writing or speaking makes your message stronger and keeps your audience engaged. The 10 formal alternatives to “this is because” we discussed offer a variety of options to fit different contexts and tones. By mixing these into your communication, you’ll sound more polished and professional.
