because
Giving a Reason
Because introduces a reason in Singlish as in other English varieties: I wait here because outside very hot. A locally shaped predicate inside the clause does not require changing because.
How It Works
Because introduces a reason. The cause follows because: I wait here because outside very hot. The local description outside very hot has its own clause pattern; because itself retains its useful reason-linking job.
Keep the reason and the result distinct. I took the bus because it rained says the rain explains the bus choice. Reversing the clauses without adjusting the connection can reverse what is being explained. A speaker can place a because clause first too. No final particle is required, and a fuller Standard English predicate is still available inside the clause.
Examples (4)
- I wait here because outside very hot.
I am waiting here because it is very hot outside.
- She took the train because her car broke down.
Her car breaking down explains why she took the train.
- Because we got time, we can walk.
We can walk because we have enough time.
- I never call because my phone got no battery.
I did not call because my phone had no battery power.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Identify the event or state being explained before attaching its reason.
Learn Next
Patterns that build on this one.
Practice because in Bubblegum
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