Translation of ”because of”

Frank C.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

Translation of ”because of”

In the translation of ” and I'm skint [US: broke] because of all the gifts that I must buy”, they use the expression ”à cause de” for because of.  I was wondering if "en raison de" could be substituted for "à cause de".  I tried it but it wasn't accepted.  Is there a subtle difference that I don't understand? 

Asked 1 month ago
CécileKwiziq Native French TeacherCorrect answer

Bonjour Frank,

While 'en raison de' and 'à cause de' are French expressions that express causality, they are not always interchangeable. There are subtle differences in their usage and connotation:

1. 'En raison de': It is generally more neutral or formal and often used in official or professional contexts. It implies a logical or rational reason and is translated as "due to" or "because of" in English.

2. 'À cause de': It can have a more negative connotation, it often implies an unfortunate or undesirable cause and is more commonly used in everyday speech, it translates to "because of" or "on account of" in English.

In many cases, you can use either expression, but the choice may affect the tone or implication of your statement.

For example:

Le vol a été retardé en raison du mauvais temps The flight was delayed due to bad weather

This sounds neutral and factual.

Le vol a été retardé à cause du mauvais temps = The flight was delayed because of bad weather

This might imply some frustration or disappointment with the situation.

In formal writing or speech, 'en raison de' is often preferred.

In casual conversation, both are used, but 'à cause de' is more common.

Hope this helps and bonne continuation !

Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Bonjour Frank,

"I'm skint [US: broke] because of all the gifts that I must buy"

In the above, there is a direct relationship between the "condition" and the "obligation"

When using "en raison due " there is the offer of an excuse as to why -- but in this case there is no need to offer an excuse. You are not reporting to some higher authority.

There is simply a neutral/causal explanation for failing (or being unable) to carry out a self-imposed obligation.

That is why I see "à cause de" ----- as the most appropriate. 

Hope that you find this input helpful.

Bonne journée

Jim

Frank C. asked:

Translation of ”because of”

In the translation of ” and I'm skint [US: broke] because of all the gifts that I must buy”, they use the expression ”à cause de” for because of.  I was wondering if "en raison de" could be substituted for "à cause de".  I tried it but it wasn't accepted.  Is there a subtle difference that I don't understand? 

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