Definition
由于 (yóuyú) is a formal preposition/conjunction meaning 'due to, because of' — it introduces a cause or reason, often in writing or formal speech. It is more formal than 因为 (yīnwèi), which is the everyday word for 'because' in both speech and writing. Unlike 因为, 由于 usually starts the sentence and is less common in casual conversation.
preposition
due tobecause of
conjunction
sinceas (introducing a reason clause)
Easily confused
- 犹豫yóu yùsound-alikehesitant, indecisive
- 忧郁yōu yùsound-alikemelancholy; depressed; dejected
Examples
- 由于，。yóu yú tiānqì yuányīn, bǐsài qǔxiāo le.Due to weather reasons, the match was cancelled.
- 由于，。yóu yú tā bìng le, jīntiān méi lái shàngkè.Since he was sick, he didn't come to class today.
- 由于，。yóu yú gōngzuò tài máng, tā hěn shǎo xiūxi.Because work is too busy, he rarely rests.
Grammar
Browse more HSK 4 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.