N 때문에, A/V-기 때문에

Because (of), since

Explanation

-때문에 and -기 때문에 express the reason for or cause of the situation described in the second clause and correspond to 'because' in English. -기 때문에 is used when expressing a clear reason and is a more literary expression than -아/어서 and -(으)니까.

After nouns, 때문에 is added, and after verbs and adjectives, -기 때문에 is added to the stem.

Details

-기 때문에 cannot be used in imperative or propositive sentences.

날씨가 춤기 때문에 따뜻한 옷을 입으세요. ✕
→날씨가 추우니까 따뜻한 옷을 입으세요. ✓
The weather is cold, so please wear warm clothes.
친구들이 기다리기 때문에 빨리 갑시다. ✕
→친구들이 기다리니까 빨리 갑시다. ✓
Our friends are waiting, so let's go quickly.
날씨가 좋기 때문에 산에 갈까요? ✕
→날씨가 좋으니까 산에 갈까요? ✓
The weather is nice, so shall we go to the mountains?

Kimchi Reader

Expresses a reason or cause of a situation.

Details

Usage with verbs

Can also be used with verbs in the form of 기 때문에

날씨가 좋기 때문에 산에 갔어요.
I went to the mountain because the weather was good.
외국인이기 때문에 한국말을 잘 못해요.
I can't speak Korean well because I am a foreigner.