crossword clue because – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "crossword clue because", organized by letter count, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue because" by Letter Count
2 Letters
AS: This short conjunction can often mean 'because' or 'since', as in "As it was raining, we stayed indoors." It's a common, concise answer in many puzzles.
3 Letters
FOR: A versatile word, 'for' can introduce a reason or cause, making it a direct synonym for 'because' in contexts like "He did it for the money."
4 Letters
ERGO: A Latin word meaning 'therefore' or 'consequently'. In crosswords, clues asking for a reason ('because') can often lead to words expressing a result, as the two are intrinsically linked.
5 Letters
SINCE: This conjunction is a direct synonym for 'because' when introducing a reason or cause, e.g., "Since you asked, I will tell you."
HENCE: Similar to 'ergo', 'hence' means 'as a consequence' or 'from this reason'. It indicates a deduction or result stemming from a cause, making it a valid answer for 'because' clues.
7 Letters
OWINGTO: This phrase means 'because of' or 'as a result of'. While typically two words, it can appear as a single word answer in some crosswords or as part of a longer clue for 'because'.
More About "crossword clue because"
The word "because" is fundamental in language, serving as a conjunction that introduces a clause stating the reason or cause of something. In crosswords, clues involving "because" test a solver's understanding of synonyms for causation, consequence, and logical connection. Common answers often include other conjunctions like "since" and "as," prepositions that imply reason like "for" or "due to," and even Latin-derived words like "ergo" or "hence" which denote a logical conclusion stemming from a reason.
The variety of possible answers for "because" stems from the nuanced ways we express cause and effect in English. While "because" is direct, other words might imply a more formal, literary, or subtle reason. Crossword setters exploit these linguistic variations to create challenging yet solvable clues. Always consider the precise context and the number of letters required when tackling such a clue.
Understanding the grammatical function of "because" – introducing a subordinate clause of reason – is key to identifying potential answers. It's not just about direct synonyms, but also about words that facilitate the same causal relationship in a sentence, often through different grammatical structures.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Parts of Speech: For clues like "because," think about conjunctions (since, as), prepositions (for, due to), and even adverbs (ergo, hence) that convey a similar meaning. The required word length will often narrow down the possibilities.
- Look for Implied Meanings: Crossword clues don't always ask for direct synonyms. "Because" can sometimes lead to answers that describe a consequence or a logical deduction (e.g., 'therefore' words), as the cause and effect are two sides of the same coin.
- Check for Latin or Archaic Terms: Many crosswords, especially older or more challenging ones, frequently use Latin terms or archaic English words. 'ERGO' and 'HENCE' are classic examples for clues related to reason or consequence.
- Utilize Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from crossing words, use them as powerful hints. This can quickly eliminate many possibilities and guide you to the correct answer for "because."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I approach a crossword clue like 'because'?
When encountering a clue like 'because', focus on words that express causation, reason, or consequence. Think of synonyms for 'due to', 'since', 'as a result of', or words that introduce a reason. Also, consider the part of speech (conjunction, preposition) and the desired word length.
Are 'because' and 'therefore' related in crosswords?
Yes, they are closely related in crossword logic. While 'because' introduces the reason and 'therefore' introduces the result, many words bridge this gap. Answers like ERGO or HENCE, which mean 'therefore' or 'for this reason', are common solutions for 'because' clues, indicating a cause-and-effect link. Crossword setters often use this semantic connection.
Why are short answers common for 'because' clues?
Many common conjunctions and prepositions that convey the meaning of 'because' are short words. Examples include AS, FOR, and SINCE. Their frequent use in everyday language makes them ideal candidates for crossword puzzles, especially for shorter slots.