01 / READExamples
Highlighted words show the grammar pattern. Reveal the English translation when needed.
因为外面很冷，所以我们坐在里面。
Because it is cold outside, we are sitting inside.
The first clause explains the choice of seating.
因为我忘了带伞，所以衣服湿了。
I forgot to bring an umbrella, so my clothes got wet.
The subjects differ: 我 in the reason, 衣服 in the result.
这家店离家近，所以我常来。
This shop is near home, so I come often.
所以 can connect the clauses even without 因为.
02 / UNDERSTANDHow it works
Sentence pattern
因为 introduces a reason; 所以 introduces the consequence. Unlike the usual English pairing, Chinese readily uses both words in one sentence. 因为外面很冷，所以我们坐在里面 can naturally be translated as “Because it is cold outside, we are sitting inside.” You do not need to reproduce both connectors in the English translation for the Chinese pattern to be correct.
Keep the logic clear. The reason should explain the result that follows, whether it is an action, a choice, or a description. The subject can be the same in both clauses or different. A short reason clause may even be a noun phrase, but complete clauses are the easiest place to start. Use the comma to help the reader see where the reason ends and the consequence begins.
Conversation often uses only one connector when the relationship is obvious. A reply to 为什么 can start with 因为, and a speaker can state a reason before adding 所以 and a conclusion. You do not have to force the full pair into every explanation. This pattern presents one fact as the reason for another, not simply as something that happened at the same time.
COMMON MISTAKESWhat to watch for
Avoid因为了外面很冷，所以我们坐在里面。
Use因为外面很冷，所以我们坐在里面。
因为 connects a reason to the sentence. It does not take the completed-action particle 了; any needed aspect marking belongs with the action itself.
03 / PRACTISECheck your understanding
04 / VOCABULARYLesson vocabulary
| Chinese | Pinyin | Meaning here |
|---|---|---|
| 外面 | wàimiàn | outside |
| 伞 | sǎn | umbrella |
| 湿 | shī | wet |
Choose a Chinese word for dictionary definitions, examples and stroke order. The meanings above are specific to this lesson.
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Written for this website. Levels indicate difficulty, not official HSK placement. The app covers this topic with different wording and exercises.
