Expressing Cause and Effect


Objectives
Key Points
Cause and effect explain why something happens (cause) and what happens as a result (effect).

Today, we’ll cover key conjunctions and phrases used for cause and effect and practice constructing sentences and paragraphs that clearly show these relationships.


Conjunctions & Phrases

because
due to
as a result
therefore
since
consequently

Understanding how to link ideas through cause and effect is crucial in both writing and speaking, especially when explaining reasons and consequences.


Examples

Because
I was late because the bus broke down.

Due to
The meeting was canceled due to the CEO's absence.

As a result
The project was delayed as a result of insufficient resources.

Therefore
The weather was bad; therefore, the flight was postponed.

Since
Since it was raining, we stayed indoors.

Consequently
The company lost its major client; consequently, profits dropped significantly.