Translation guide
Expresses reason or cause, often formal or written. In Japanese, this is typically handled by particles, conjunctions, or set phrases rather than a single word.
The most common meaning: indicating the reason or cause for something, often with a nuance of formality.
A versatile pattern meaning 'because of' or 'due to'. Can be used with nouns. Slightly formal but common in both speech and writing.
雨のために試合が中止になった。
The game was canceled on account of rain.
病気のために彼は欠席した。
He was absent on account of illness.
Used to introduce a reason that justifies a decision or action, often with a nuance of 'given that'.
Similar to 〜のために but slightly more formal and often used in official contexts. Can also mean 'for the sake of'.
安全のため、ヘルメットを着用してください。
Please wear a helmet on account of safety.
〜のために is neutral and can be used for both positive and negative reasons. 〜のせいで always implies a negative outcome and often carries a tone of blame or regret.
彼のおかげで成功した。
We succeeded thanks to him. (positive, use おかげで)
彼のせいで失敗した。
We failed because of him. (negative, use せいで)
Do not try to translate 'on account of' word-for-word into Japanese. There is no single equivalent; use the appropriate particle or conjunction based on context and formality.
Used to indicate a negative cause or blame. Often translates to 'because of' with a nuance of fault. Common in casual and spoken Japanese.
Implies something undesirable happened. Avoid using for positive outcomes.
交通渋滞のせいで遅刻した。
I was late on account of traffic.
Formal pattern meaning 'due to' or 'as a result of'. Often used in news, reports, or written contexts.
地震によって多くの建物が倒壊した。
Many buildings collapsed on account of the earthquake.
Very formal, often used in official notices or signs. Means 'due to' or 'because of'.
工事中につき、通行止め。
Road closed on account of construction.
Means 'due to circumstances related to...' or 'because of...'. Common in business or formal explanations.
予算の関係で、計画は延期された。
The plan was postponed on account of budget considerations.