Porque (en. Because)

/porˈke/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish

conjunction

Introduces a subordinate clause that expresses the cause or reason of what is said in the main clause.

I didn't go to the party because I was tired.

No fui a la fiesta porque estaba cansado.

Used to clarify or justify a statement.

He arrived late because there was traffic.

Él llegó tarde porque había tráfico.

Used to answer questions that inquire about the reason for something.

Why didn't you study? Because I didn't have time.

¿Por qué no estudiaste? Porque no tenía tiempo.

From Latin 'quod' (that) and 'causa' (cause), which translates as 'for what reason.'

why

Indicates the reason for something, used in questions.

por qué

I don't know why

Expresses ignorance about the reason for something.

no sé por qué

why not

Used to suggest that something be done, denoting reasoning.

por qué no

just because

Indicates an imprecise reason or without explicit justification.

porque sí

cause

The motive or reason for an event.

causa

reason

The principle or cause that underpins a thought or action.

razón

justification

A reason that explains something.

justificación

Simply for being.

I'm going to do whatever I want, just because.

Voy a hacer lo que me dé la gana, porque sí.

To avoid arguing.

You said you weren't going out, and that's that, because no.

Dijiste que no ibas a salir y ya, porque no.