Because Phrases
Shortening because-clauses
Same-time Event
| BECAUSE | MODIFYING CLAUSE |
|---|---|
If because introduces a clause with a subject that is the same as the subject of the result clause, then the because-clause can be shortened. |
If both subjects are the same, delete the subject of the because-clause and change its verb to a gerund form VERB + ING |
Because he was working so hard, he was earning a good salary. (same time)
|
Working so hard, he was earning a good salary. (same time)
|
| BECAUSE + BE | MODIFYING CLAUSE |
|---|---|
If because introduces a clause with a subject that is the same as the subject of the result clause, then the because-clause can be shortened. |
If both subjects are the same, delete the subject of the because-clause and change its verb to a gerund form BEING |
Because he was ill, he was unable to come to work. (same time)
|
|
Earlier Event
| BECAUSE | MODIFYING CLAUSE having verb+ed |
|---|---|
If because introduces a clause with a subject that is the same as the subject of the result clause, then the because-clause can be shortened. |
If the action occured at an earlier time, delete the subject of the because-clause and change its verb to its present perfect participle form HAVING VERB+ED |
Because he had been working so hard , he needed a vacation.
|
Having worked so hard (earlier
time), he needed a vacation. |
| BECAUSE + HAVING BEEN | MODIFYING CLAUSE having been |
|---|---|
If because introduces a clause with a subject that is the same as the subject of the result clause, then the because-clause can be shortened. |
If the action occured at an earlier time, delete the subject of the because-clause and change its verb to its present perfect participle form HAVING BEEN |
Because he had been ill the night before, he was unable to go to work the next day
|
Having been ill the night before (earlier time), he was unable to go to work the next day. |
Same Subject Requirement
| SAME CLAUSE SUBJECTS | DIFFERENT CLAUSE SUBJECTS |
|---|---|
| If the subject of both clauses is the same, the clause can be shortened. |
If the subject of the two clauses is different, the clause cannot be shortened. |
Because he was working hard, he was earning money. |
Because he was working so hard, she could stay home and watch the kids.
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Common Error
| INCORRECT | FIX |
|---|---|
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Practice
Shortening Because Clauses
- Select a phrase that can replace the because-clause if it is possible. Make sure the subject of both sentences is the same.
- Compare your response to the answer on the right by clicking the "check" button.