due to
/djuː tuː/
Meaning
'Due to' is a prepositional phrase used to explain the cause or reason for something, meaning 'because of' or 'caused by'. In academic contexts, it is highly common for linking a result directly to its origin. It should be followed by a noun or noun phrase rather than a full clause.
Examples
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The project was delayed due to a lack of funding.
The project was delayed due to a lack of funding.
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Due to extreme weather conditions, the university campus will remain closed tomorrow.
Due to extreme weather conditions, the university campus will remain closed tomorrow.
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The increase in global temperatures is largely due to greenhouse gas emissions.
The increase in global temperatures is largely due to greenhouse gas emissions.
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Due to a scheduling conflict, the guest lecture has been postponed to next Friday.
Due to a scheduling conflict, the guest lecture has been postponed to next Friday.
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Many species are currently facing extinction due to habitat destruction.
Many species are currently facing extinction due to habitat destruction.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The experiment failed due to the temperature was too high.
✓ The experiment failed due to the high temperature.
The phrase 'due to' must be followed by a noun or noun phrase, not a full clause with a verb. If you want to use a clause, use 'because' instead.
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✗ The reason why the study was cancelled was due to low participation.
✓ The study was cancelled due to low participation.
Combining 'the reason why' and 'due to' in the same sentence is redundant because both expressions explain the cause.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The library closed early ___ a power outage in the building.
💡 expresses the cause of the closure
Show answer
due to
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___ high demand, the chemistry department is offering an extra lab session.
💡 starts the sentence to explain the reason
Show answer
Due to
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The error in the calculation was ___ a simple typing mistake.
💡 follows the verb 'was'
Show answer
due to