Many English learners feel confused when choosing between “because of its” and “because of it being.” Both forms appear in spoken and written English, but they are not used in the same way. In fact, one is usually preferred in formal writing, while the other often sounds awkward or unnecessary.
Understanding the difference will help you write more naturally, especially in academic, professional, and formal situations. In this guide, we will clearly explain how each structure works, when to use it, and how to avoid common mistakes.
1. Understanding “Because of Its”
“Because of its” is used when referring to a noun and its quality, feature, or characteristic. The word “its” is a possessive adjective. It shows that something belongs to or describes a thing.
Structure:
because of + its + noun
Examples of “Because of Its”
- The company succeeded because of its strong leadership.
- The dog was adopted because of its friendly nature.
- The phone is popular because of its affordable price.
- The city is famous because of its historic buildings.
- The team lost the match because of its poor defense.
In each sentence, “its” describes a noun (leadership, nature, price, buildings, defense). This structure is clear, simple, and grammatically standard.
This form is strongly preferred in formal writing.
2. Understanding “Because of It Being”
“Because of it being” uses a gerund structure. “Being” is the -ing form of the verb “be.” This construction introduces a clause-like idea, but in a noun form.
Structure:
because of + it + being + adjective/noun
Examples of “Because of It Being”
- The game was canceled because of it being too rainy.
- The event was delayed because of it being a holiday.
- He was tired because of it being so late.
Although these sentences are grammatically possible, they often sound less natural. In most cases, there is a simpler and clearer alternative.
For example:
The game was canceled because it was too rainy.
The event was delayed because it was a holiday.
He was tired because it was so late.
These versions are more direct and easier to understand.
3. Why “Because of It Being” Often Sounds Awkward
There are three main reasons this structure is usually avoided:
- It is wordy. It uses more words than necessary.
- It sounds informal or spoken. It is common in conversation but not ideal in formal writing.
- There is usually a better alternative.
In academic or professional writing, clarity and simplicity are important. “Because of its” or a full clause with “because” is usually better.
4. Direct Comparison
| Structure | Example | Formality | Preferred? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Because of its + noun | The product failed because of its design. | Formal and informal | Yes ✅ |
| Because of it being + adjective | The product failed because of it being poorly designed. | Mostly informal | Usually no ❌ |
| Because + subject + verb | The product failed because it was poorly designed. | Formal and informal | Yes ✅ |
5. When “Because of It Being” May Be Acceptable
In some informal spoken English, especially in conversation, native speakers use this structure naturally:
I stayed home because of it being cold outside.
However, even here, most speakers would more naturally say:
I stayed home because it was cold outside.
In very specific grammatical contexts—such as after certain prepositions—gerund structures are required. But in everyday writing, this is rarely necessary.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Using “It’s” Instead of “Its”
Remember:
- Its = possessive (correct for this structure)
- It’s = it is (contraction)
Correct: The company grew because of its strategy.
Incorrect: The company grew because of it's strategy.
Mistake 2: Using “Because of It Being” in Formal Writing
Avoid this in essays, reports, and academic papers.
Less formal: The meeting was canceled because of it being too short notice.
Better: The meeting was canceled because it was scheduled at short notice.
Mistake 3: Mixing Structures Incorrectly
Incorrect: The car crashed because of it bad brakes.
Correct: The car crashed because of its bad brakes.
7. Choosing the Best Option
Ask yourself these questions:
- Am I describing a quality or feature? → Use because of its + noun.
- Can I rewrite it as a full sentence with “because”? → That may be clearer.
- Is this formal writing? → Avoid “because of it being.”
In most situations, you will choose between:
because of its + noun
because + subject + verb
Both are clear and correct.
Quick Summary
- “Because of its” is correct, natural, and widely used.
- “Its” is a possessive adjective.
- “Because of it being” is grammatically possible but often wordy and informal.
- In formal writing, prefer “because of its” or “because + clause.”
- Always check that you are not confusing “its” and “it’s.”
Conclusion
The difference between “because of its” and “because of it being” is mainly about clarity, simplicity, and formality. While both forms can appear in English, “because of its” is usually the better choice, especially in formal writing. When possible, consider using a full clause with “because” for even clearer communication.
By choosing the simpler and more natural structure, you will sound more confident and professional in your English writing.