Learning English

Group 2 linking devices

Let's meet our next little group of linking devices: because of, as a result of, due to and owing to.

1) Noun phrases and participle clauses

With Group 2 linking devices, the cause part is not a whole sentence or clause, it's a noun phrase (a phrase that behaves like a noun) or participle clause (a short phrase that begins with a verb, usually in the -ing form):

• interest rate rises (noun phrase)
• rising interest rates (participle clause)

Let's imagine a cause and effect situation: interest rate rises are the cause of price increases. This is one way we could connect them using owing to:

• The problem has increased owing tointerest rate rises.
• The problem has increased owing to rising interest rates.

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2) Position

In Group 1, the linking device usually comes between the cause and effect parts. Cause is always first, and effect is second.

With Group 2, the cause can come first or second, and the linking device moves with it. Notice that you need a comma after the linking device if it's in the first part of the sentence.

• As a result of interest rate rises, the problem has increased.
• The problem has increased as a result of interest rate rises.

Take note: The fact that

We can use a group 2 linking device +the fact that + a verb phrase:

• The problem has increased owing to the fact that interest rates are rising.

Take note: as a result and as a result of

As a result is in Group 1, and as a result of is in Group 2! They look very similar but behave differently.

To do

It's time to test yourself again.

Next

Now it's time for a good summary of all these points in 6 Minute Grammar. Neil and Catherine give you plenty of examples and a quiz at the end of the programme. See you there!