Professional writers employ several effective alternatives to 'this is because' to enhance clarity and avoid repetition in their work. Common synonyms include 'as a result,' 'consequently,' 'for this reason,' 'therefore,' 'hence,' 'thus,' 'due to this,' 'accordingly,' 'subsequently,' and 'as a consequence.' Each alternative carries its own level of formality and specific context for ideal use. Understanding these variations helps writers craft more sophisticated and engaging explanations, with deeper exploration revealing the nuances of each phrase.
Is It Professional to Use 'This Is Because'?
While the phrase 'this is because' appears frequently in both academic and professional writing, its appropriateness depends heavily on the context and writing style guidelines being followed. In formal academic papers, many style guides recommend using more sophisticated connecting phrases to demonstrate logical relationships between ideas. Professional writers often opt for alternatives that sound more polished and demonstrate a broader command of language.
However, 'this is because' remains grammatically correct and can be particularly useful in technical documentation, instructional materials, or situations where absolute clarity takes precedence over stylistic concerns. When writing for general audiences or in less formal business communications, the phrase serves as a straightforward way to introduce explanations. The key consideration is matching the level of formality to the intended audience and purpose.
Why You Might Use a Different Word To 'This Is Because'
Replacing 'this is because' with alternative connections and linking phrases can greatly enhance the sophistication and flow of written communication. Writers often seek variations to avoid repetition, enhance readability, and demonstrate linguistic versatility in their work. Using different linking phrases helps maintain reader engagement while conveying relationships between ideas more precisely.
Professional contexts particularly benefit from varied language choices, as sophisticated writing often correlates with career advancement and academic success. Additionally, different connecting phrases can better capture specific types of causation or explanation, whether describing direct results, logical conclusions, or complex relationships between concepts. The ability to select appropriate alternatives demonstrates a writer's command of language and helps tailor the tone and style to specific audiences and purposes.
10 Synonyms for 'This Is Because'
1. As a result
This change phrase works best when showing a direct cause-and-effect relationship between two statements. It's particularly effective in academic writing and formal explanations where logical flow is essential. This phrase helps maintain a professional tone while clearly connecting ideas. It's especially useful when explaining scientific processes or business outcomes. The phrase carries a sense of inevitability and logical conclusion.
Example use:
"The ice caps are melting; as a result, sea levels are rising worldwide."
"The company doubled its marketing budget; as a result, sales increased by 40%."
"He failed to submit his assignment on time; as a result, he received a lower grade."
2. Consequently
This formal change word is ideal for academic and professional writing when discussing logical outcomes. It carries a tone of authority and works well in complex arguments or when explaining serious consequences. Consequently is particularly effective when the result being discussed is significant or far-reaching. It's also useful in scientific papers and technical documentation where precision is important.
Example use:
"The bridge was poorly maintained; consequently, it collapsed during rush hour."
"The experiment was contaminated; consequently, all results were invalid."
"She practiced daily; consequently, her performance improved dramatically."
3. For this reason
This phrase works well in explanatory texts and instructional materials. It's less formal than "consequently" but more structured than casual alternatives. The phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the specific reason behind an outcome. It's useful in presentations, educational materials, and business communications where clarity is essential.
Example use:
"The software was outdated; for this reason, we needed to upgrade all systems."
"The soil was too acidic; for this reason, the plants wouldn't grow."
"The weather was severe; for this reason, the flight was canceled."
4. Therefore
This classic change word is versatile and works in both formal and semi-formal contexts. It's particularly effective in mathematical proofs, logical arguments, and scientific writing. Therefore carries a sense of logical conclusion without being overly stiff. It's excellent for summarizing arguments or drawing conclusions from presented evidence.
Example use:
"All mammals breathe oxygen; therefore, whales must surface for air."
"The evidence was inconclusive; therefore, no charges were filed."
"The deadline has passed; therefore, we cannot accept your application."
5. Hence
This concise change word is perfect for formal writing where space is limited. It's particularly effective in academic writing and professional documents where brevity is valued. Hence has an authoritative tone while remaining elegant and understated. It's especially useful in mathematical proofs and logical deductions.
Example use:
"The roads were icy; hence, the accident rate increased."
"The data was corrupted; hence, we needed to repeat the analysis."
"The demand exceeded supply; hence, prices rose sharply."
6. Thus
This sophisticated change word bridges ideas smoothly in academic and professional writing. It's particularly effective when drawing conclusions or showing natural progression of thought. Thus works well in formal presentations and scholarly articles. It carries a tone of authority while maintaining accessibility.
Example use:
"The engine overheated; thus, the car broke down."
"The experiment succeeded; thus, our hypothesis was confirmed."
"The deadline was extended; thus, we had more time to prepare."
7. Due to this
This phrase is particularly useful in technical writing and explanatory texts. It's more casual than "consequently" but still maintains professionalism. Due to this works well when emphasizing direct causation. It's especially effective in business reports and educational materials where clear explanation is priority.
Example use:
"The server crashed; due to this, all data was temporarily inaccessible."
"The rain was heavy; due to this, the game was postponed."
"The budget was cut; due to this, several projects were canceled."
8. Accordingly
This formal change word is ideal for official documents and professional correspondence. It suggests compliance or appropriate response to circumstances. Accordingly works particularly well in legal documents and formal reports. It implies careful consideration and appropriate action based on circumstances.
Example use:
"The contract was breached; accordingly, legal action was taken."
"The safety regulations changed; accordingly, we updated our procedures."
"The market declined; accordingly, investments were restructured."
9. Subsequently
This change word emphasizes temporal sequence while implying causation. It's particularly effective when timing is relevant to the cause-and-effect relationship. Subsequently works well in historical accounts and process descriptions. It's especially useful when chronicling events that lead to specific outcomes.
Example use:
"The company invested in new technology; subsequently, productivity improved."
"The medication was administered; subsequently, symptoms decreased."
"The policy was implemented; subsequently, accident rates declined."
10. As a consequence
This phrase emphasizes serious or significant outcomes. It's particularly effective in formal reports and academic writing where gravity needs to be conveyed. As a consequence works well when discussing important implications or serious results. It's especially useful in risk assessments and impact analyses.
Example use:
"The dam broke; as a consequence, the valley was flooded."
"The contract was violated; as a consequence, penalties were imposed."
"The security was breached; as a consequence, all passwords needed to be reset."
Final Thoughts
Understanding and employing the right connective phrases can enhance any piece of writing from basic to polished and professional. The ability to clearly express cause-and-effect relationships through varied language demonstrates linguistic competence and keeps readers engaged. Writers who master these alternatives to "this is because" can effectively convey their reasoning while maintaining sophistication in their work.
When selecting the appropriate connective phrase, writers should consider their audience, context, and the level of formality required. The key is to choose phrases that maintain clarity while adding stylistic variety. By incorporating these alternatives thoughtfully, writers can develop a more refined writing style that effectively communicates logical connections and strengthens their overall argument structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'This Is Because' Be Used in Academic Writing?
While "this is because" can be used in academic writing, more sophisticated connectors like "consequently," "therefore," or "as a result" are often preferred for clearer and more professional expression.
How Do Different Cultures Interpret the Phrase 'This Is Because'?
Cultural interpretations of 'this is because' vary widely, with some languages using more direct causal statements, while others prefer implicit connections or emphasize relationship-based explanations in their reasoning.
Should 'This Is Because' Be Avoided in Business Emails?
Professional writers recommend avoiding 'this is because' in business emails, as more concise alternatives like 'because,' 'due to,' or 'as' convey reasoning more efficiently and maintain formality.
What Punctuation Marks Should Follow 'This Is Because'?
After "this is because," writers should use either a comma or a colon. A comma suits informal writing, while a colon provides more emphasis and formality in professional communication.
Are There Any Situations Where 'This Is Because' Is Strictly Forbidden?
While "this is because" isn't strictly forbidden in any context, it can weaken formal academic writing or professional documents where more sophisticated connecting phrases are preferred.
