Cause
Here are some common conjunctions used to express cause:
- Because
- As
- Since
These words begin a dependent clause; they are followed by a subject and verb:
- Because traffic was congested, the paramedics had difficulty reaching the scene of the accident.
- As many people are concerned about public safety, the event has been postponed until further notice.
Here are some other common linking devices used to express cause:
- Because of
- As a result of
- Due to
- Owing to
- In view of
Because these phrases contain prepositions, they are followed by nouns/phrases. They cannot be followed by a clause:
- Because of the traffic congestion, the paramedics had difficulty reaching the scene of the accident.
- In view of the concern for public safety, the event has been postponed until further notice.
- NOT
- Because of the traffic was congested, the paramedics had difficulty reaching the scene of the accident.
Effect
Here are some common linking devices used to express effect:
- Therefore
- As a result
- Consequently
These are conjunctive adverbs; they are used to connect two independent clauses. Take note of the punctuation:
- Traffic was congested; consequently, the paramedics had difficulty reaching the scene of the accident.
- Many are concerned about public safety; therefore, the event has been postponed until further notice.