Giving Reasons
Adverb Clauses
Adverb clauses show cause and effect relationships. Adverb clauses can either begin a sentence, or end a sentence. If the adverb clause begins the sentence, place a comma after the adverb clause. No comma is necessary if the adverb clause finishes the sentence.
Because
An adverb clause with 'because' provides the reason for the action taken in the main clause. Adverb clauses with 'because' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
As per invoice, the account will be de-activated because three consecutive payments were late.
We did not post a bid because we were unable to secure corporate resolution.
Since
'Since' has the same meaning as 'because'.
An adverb clause with 'since' provides the reason for the action taken in the main clause. Adverb clauses with 'since' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
The controlling company acquired the small business since it would help their profit margins.
They feel constricted since the controlling company has complete authority over their business.
Prepositions
Because of
Adverb cases beginning with 'because of' are followed by a noun or noun phrase. Adverb clauses with 'because of' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
The market has improved because of the availability of consumer credit.
Anderson has been put on consignment because of his lack of organizational skills.
Due to
Adverb cases beginning with 'due to' are followed is followed by a noun or noun phrase. Adverb clauses with 'due to' generally end a sentence. However, they can also begin a sentence.
Examples:
Due to the lack of needed funds, the company had to lay off ten people
Due to the confidential nature of my message, I sent it to you under separate cover.