Means or Cause: English Vocabulary List

through the force, effort, or influence of someone or something

"He succeeded by dint of hard work."

"By dint of hard work and determination she finally achieved her goal of becoming a doctor."

by using or with the help of something

"He escaped by means of a tunnel."

"The thief entered the house by means of an unlocked window at the back of the building."

through a particular method, route, or means

"He explained by way of an example."

"He explained the concept by way of an example so everyone could understand it clearly."

because of a particular quality, attribute, or right possessed by someone or something

"By virtue of his rank."

"She was granted access to the restricted archives by virtue of her position as the lead researcher on the project."

utilizing a particular method, tool, or technique

"He solved it through the use of math."

"Through the use of modern technology doctors can perform surgeries with great precision."

used to convey that something is happening or exists after and often due to another event or action

"In the wake of the storm many trees fell."

"In the wake of the scandal the CEO resigned from his position at the company."

used to introduce the reason of something happening

"He was late because of traffic."

"Because of his illness he was unable to attend the meeting and had to stay home."

because of a particular cause or reason

"He was excused by reason of illness."

"He was excused from jury duty by reason of his medical condition and age."

as a result of a specific cause or reason

"The game was canceled due to rain."

"Due to the bad weather the flight was delayed for over three hours at the airport."

because of a specific reason or cause

"On account of the rain we stayed inside."

"On account of the holiday the store will be closed all day tomorrow."

as a result of a particular cause or circumstance

"Owing to the storm we stayed home."

"Owing to the high cost of materials we had to increase the price of our products."

as a result of actions or treatment carried out by a particular person or group

"He suffered at the hands of his enemy."

"The prisoner suffered cruel treatment at the hands of his captors for many months."

used to express the cause or reason for a particular outcome

"Thanks to his help we finished early."

"Thanks to your help we were able to finish the project before the deadline."

used to indicate the necessary condition or requirement that must be fulfilled for a particular goal or outcome to be achieved

"In order for you to pass you must study."

"In order for the plant to grow it needs sunlight water and good soil to thrive."

having control or responsibility for someone or something

"She is in charge of the project."

"She is in charge of the marketing department and manages a team of ten people."