it is why

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it is why' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to explain the reason or cause for something stated earlier in the sentence. For example: "I don't like it when people are rude to me; it is why I refuse to be around them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And if it is, why?

The Economist

I said it is "why".

The New York Times

It is why we serve.

The New York Times

It is why we play the game.

Independent

Often it is why they returned.

The New York Times - Food

It is why we do it".

Independent

It is why Marmite is my mate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is why we are here!

The New York Times - Food

It is why I like theatre.

The Guardian

"It is why couture is expensive.

The Washington Post

It is: why am I doing this?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, prefer alternatives in order to provide a text variation that sounds more natural.

Common error

Avoid using "it is why" in overly complex sentences where the cause-and-effect relationship becomes muddled. Simplify the sentence or rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is why" functions as a causal connector, linking a preceding statement to its cause or explanation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively introduces the reason behind a situation or action. It sets the ground of providing justification for the statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is why" serves as a versatile and grammatically sound causal connector, commonly used to explain the reason behind a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability across various contexts, especially in news and media. While alternatives like "that explains why" may offer slightly more formality, "it is why" remains a clear and effective way to establish cause-and-effect relationships in your writing or speech. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring the connection between cause and effect is easily understood by your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that explains why

Emphasizes the explanatory nature of the reason.

that's the reason why

Directly states the cause or justification.

hence the reason

A more formal way to introduce the explanation.

this accounts for why

Highlights that this is the element that accounts for something.

this is attributable to

Ascribe the effect to the cause.

that's the cause of

Explicitly labels something as a cause.

the reason being

Offers a succinct opening to an explanation.

due to this

Connects a result directly to a cause.

this is the explanation

Points directly to the explanation.

consequently,

Expresses a direct consequence of something else

FAQs

How can I use "it is why" in a sentence?

Use "it is why" to explain the reason or cause behind a statement you've just made. For example, "I value punctuality; "it is why" I always arrive early".

What are some alternatives to "it is why"?

You can use phrases like "that explains why", "that's the reason why", or "hence the reason" as alternatives to "it is why".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it is why"?

While grammatically acceptable, starting a sentence with "it is why" can sometimes sound less formal. Consider rephrasing for a more sophisticated tone in formal writing.

What's the difference between "it is why" and "that is why"?

"It is why" and "that is why" are largely interchangeable. "That is why" might sound slightly more formal, but both serve to introduce an explanation.