a causa di
Lemma: a causa di
Translation: because of; due to; on account of; owing to (preposition)
Etymology: This prepositional phrase is composed of three elements: 'a' (at/to), 'causa' (cause, from Latin 'causa' meaning reason or cause), and 'di' (of). The construction literally means 'at/to the cause of' which evolved to express causality. The Latin 'causa' is also the root of English words like 'cause', 'causal', and 'because'.
Example Usage
Il treno è in ritardo a causa del maltempo.
The train is late because of the bad weather.
A causa della pioggia, abbiamo cancellato il picnic.
Due to the rain, we canceled the picnic.
Non posso venire a causa di un impegno di lavoro.
I can't come because of a work commitment.
La strada è chiusa a causa di lavori in corso.
The road is closed due to ongoing construction work.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a causa di' as 'a cause of' in English - they sound similar and have related meanings.
- Remember 'causa' means 'cause' - the middle part of this phrase is the key to its meaning.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is a standard way to express causality in Italian and is used in both formal and informal contexts. It's one of the first causal expressions that learners encounter.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'A causa di' requires the preposition 'di' followed by a noun, while 'a causa' is used in different constructions, often followed by 'che' to introduce a clause.
Notes: Both express causality but with different grammatical constructions.
Mnemonic: 'Di' means 'of' - 'a causa di' needs 'of' + noun (of the rain), while 'a causa che' needs a verb (that it was raining).
Explanation: While both express causality, 'a causa di' typically introduces a negative or neutral cause, whereas 'grazie a' (thanks to) introduces a positive cause.
Confused word:
Siamo arrivati in tempo grazie al nuovo treno veloce.
We arrived on time thanks to the new fast train.
Notes: The choice between these phrases often reveals the speaker's attitude toward the cause.
Mnemonic: If you're grateful for the cause, use 'grazie a'; if it's a problem, use 'a causa di'.