Cause and Effect: Because, Since, As
B1 Level
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Compare these examples: "I missed the bus because I woke up late" (the reason is the main point) vs "Since you already know the answer, I won't explain again" (the reason is background information). As works like "since" for known reasons: "As it was getting dark, we decided to go home." Be careful: "since" can also mean "from that time" and "as" can also mean "while" — context makes the meaning clear. When answering "why" questions, always use "because," not "since" or "as": "Why were you late?" — "Because I missed the bus." This distinction is important for B1 level learners.
Quick Rule
because / since / as + clause (giving the reason)
- 1.I couldn't sleep because the neighbours were having a loud party. (reason is the main point)
- 2.Since we have some free time, let's visit the museum. (known reason — suggestion)
- 3.As it was raining heavily, the match was cancelled. (background reason)
- 4.She didn't come to the meeting because she wasn't feeling well. (negative reason)
- 5.Since you are already here, would you like to stay for dinner? (shared knowledge — invitation)
All 20 questions
Combine the two sentences using the linking word given in brackets. The linking word should introduce the reason/cause.
I stayed home. I was feeling ill. (because)
I stayed home
You're already here. Could you help me with this? (Since)
Since
She didn't come to the party. She had to work late. (because)
She didn't come to the party
It's your birthday. I'll pay for dinner. (Since)
Since
The match was cancelled. There was heavy rain. (because of)
The match was cancelled
I bought this book. You recommended it. (because)
I bought this book
We have some time. Let's grab a coffee. (As)
As
He failed the exam. He didn't study enough. (because)
He failed the exam
You know the area well. You should lead the way. (Since)
Since
I can't attend the meeting. I'll be travelling. (as)
I can't attend the meeting
There's no more work to do. Let's go home early. (Since)
Since
She got the job. She had the most experience. (because)
She got the job
I'm learning Spanish. I want to travel to South America. (because)
I'm learning Spanish
The shop was closed. We had to shop elsewhere. (As)
As
He's exhausted. He worked a double shift. (because)
He's exhausted
You asked so nicely. I'll make an exception. (Since)
Since
We chose this restaurant. It has vegetarian options. (because)
We chose this restaurant
Everyone is here. We can start the meeting. (As)
As
The concert was postponed. The singer was ill. (because)
The concert was postponed
I didn't buy it. It was too expensive. (since)
I didn't buy it
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