principally because

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principally because" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the main reason or cause for something, emphasizing that it is the primary factor among others. Example: "The project was delayed principally because of unforeseen circumstances that arose during the planning phase."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is principally because of proxy responses.

The Guardian

Not principally because it looks bad.

The Guardian

"It's principally because of the economic situation," he said.

The New York Times

Groopman succeeds principally because he refuses to offer a simple, easily digestible thesis.

The New York Times - Books

"They're higher principally because so many coaches have total control," said Art Modell, the Baltimore owner.

The New York Times - Sports

Principally because of Murdoch's actions in China, Ottaway has campaigned against Murdoch's ownership.

The New Yorker

The rise was principally because of favorable foreign currency exchange rates.

The New York Times

Western diplomats believe he was ousted principally because of unauthorised efforts to set up peace talks.

The Guardian

It feels right principally because the Wigmore has the nurturing enclosure of an old Edwardian clubhouse.

The New York Times - Arts

I won't hold my breath (principally because I couldn't hold my breath for that long).

The Guardian - Sport

The old style Fafner weighed well over 250 pounds, principally because he had metal scales.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "principally because" to introduce the most important reason among several contributing factors. This emphasizes the primary cause while acknowledging that other factors may also be involved.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "principally because" can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider using simpler alternatives like "mainly because" or "mostly because" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principally because" functions as an adverbial conjunction, linking a cause and its effect. It introduces the main reason for a particular outcome, similar to how Ludwig AI explained in the introductory blurb. For example, "The rise was principally because of favorable foreign currency exchange rates."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "principally because" serves as a causal connector, indicating the primary reason for a particular outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently used, although it leans towards a neutral-to-formal register. It is used to explain and justify, with a slightly formal tone compared to alternatives like "mainly because". Given its prevalence in news, science, and business contexts, understanding its function and appropriate usage can enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mainly because

This alternative is more common and slightly less formal than "principally because".

primarily because

This alternative is nearly identical in meaning and formality, focusing on the primary cause.

chiefly because

This alternative emphasizes the main reason, similar to "principally because", but might sound slightly more formal.

largely because

This alternative indicates that the reason is a major contributing factor, though not necessarily the only one.

mostly because

This alternative is less formal, suggesting the reason is the main one but with a slightly lighter emphasis.

predominantly because

This alternative stresses that the reason is the most noticeable or prevalent one.

due to

This alternative is a shorter and more direct way of indicating causation, suitable for less formal contexts.

owing to

This alternative is a more formal and slightly less common way to express causation.

on account of

This alternative offers a formal way of expressing the reason for something.

as a result of

This alternative emphasizes the consequence of a prior event.

FAQs

What does "principally because" mean?

The phrase "principally because" means primarily or mainly because. It's used to indicate the main reason or cause for something.

How can I use "principally because" in a sentence?

You can use "principally because" to introduce the primary reason for an event or situation. For example, "The project was delayed principally because of unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "principally because"?

Alternatives to "principally because" include "mainly because", "primarily because", and "chiefly because". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "principally because" more formal than "mainly because"?

Yes, "principally because" is generally considered more formal than "mainly because". "Mainly because" is more commonly used in everyday conversation and less formal writing.