Embarking on a new career path as a writer involves exploring the unknowns of the English language, and much of that journey comes with discovering how to use specific words and phrases.
Despite being taught that “because” is a subordinating conjunction, many wonder if it’s an acceptable word to start a sentence with when working writing jobs.
The simple answer is that starting a sentence with “because” is possible, though the format must be correct. Despite the controversy surrounding the subordinate conjunction, it’s a viable answer or response to a “why” question. Take your writing and knowledge of the English language to the next level by reading more about how and when to use “because” to start a sentence today.
When to start a sentence with because
Using “because” to start a sentence is possible and acceptable when it conveys a full thought through a complete sentence. “Because” is another way of saying “for this reason.”
You can use because when it links an independent clause with a subordinate conjunction. Independent clauses can stand and state an idea on their own, while a subordinate conjunction depends on the independent clause to create a complete sentence.
Starting a sentence with because puts the emphasis on the sentence’s end, where the independent clause resides. Here’s a closer look at some sentences that can start with because:
“Because of the snow, the roads were closed for the remainder of the day.”
“Because of your actions, you are in trouble.”
“Because of car trouble, he missed the job interview.”
It’s a key point to remember that you can use because to start a sentence when it expresses a complete thought. Don’t shy away from starting sentences with because when you begin earning money from home as a writer.
Starting a paragraph with because
It’s also possible to start a paragraph with because. The same rules apply to the opening sentence, with the subordinate conjunction supporting the independent clause and emphasizing the sentence’s back half. The proper format involves using the subordinate conjunction, or dependent clause, followed by a comma, with the independent clause concluding the thought or idea.
The comma is essential when writing out a sentence beginning with because. Without the comma, the statement is grammatically incorrect. It’s always beneficial to proofread and check your work before submitting it.
Tips for starting a sentence with because
The number one issue you’ll encounter when attempting to begin a sentence with because is a sentence fragment. The sentence will be incomplete because it lacks all the requirements and components to complete it, including a subject and a verb.
You’ll need to shift the words you use when writing a sentence with because as the opening word. A general rule you can use is flipping the sections of the sentence, with the dependent clause opening the sentence and the independent clause being the emphasis and ending.
When flipped, a sentence starting with because will still be grammatically correct, helping you to grow as a writer and find new writing jobs. It’s a step toward learning more about sentence structure and using a conjunction to start a sentence.
Here’s a breakdown of how to flip the sentence to start it with a dependent clause:
“The roads were closed because of the snowstorm.”
Placing a period after the word “closed” creates a sentence fragment, with the independent clause making sense while the dependent clause becomes a dead end. The second sentence needs to be flipped, which results in:
“Because of the snowstorm, the roads were closed.”
The rules surrounding the English language have evolved as Common English has changed. While “because” was an unacceptable way to start a sentence for centuries, opinions are beginning to shift. Many things that were viewed as poor or incorrect English are now commonplace. Consider using “because” to start a sentence when writing informal communication or dialogue for a story or novel.
Key points to remember
The key point to remember when starting a sentence with “because” is connecting two clauses with a comma. The dependent clause, led by “because,” opens the sentence, and the independent clause becomes the emphasis and end of the statement. It’s also worth noting that sentence fragments starting with “because” are acceptable when using conversational or informal English.
Take your writing to the next level
Finding writing jobs begins with a proven grasp and expertise of the English language, and learning when and how to start a sentence with “because” can help you grow your skills and build a portfolio. Check out more of our content to begin earning money from home as a writer today.