1
× There was a traffic jam because the snow.
√ There was a traffic jam because of the snow.
We use because before a clause (subject + verb) and because of before a noun. Compare:
- There was a traffic jam because it snowed heavily.
- There was a traffic jam because of the heavy snow.
2
× I haven’t called because of I’ve been very busy lately.
√ I haven’t called because I’ve been very busy lately.
We use because before a clause (subject + verb) and because of before a noun. Compare:
- I haven’t called because I’ve been very busy lately.
- I haven’t called because of my busy schedule.