1
Core relationship
Because of or as a result of the stated cause.
Example
The match was delayed owing to heavy rainfall.
owing to
/ˈəʊɪŋ tuː/ · OH-ing toocause phrase
Because of or as a result of the stated cause.
Use owing to to express this relationship precisely: because of or as a result of the stated cause.
What owing to Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Owing to measurement error, the first estimate was discarded.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Trade declined owing to the closure of the mountain road.
Use owing to Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The match was delayed owing to heavy rainfall.
Owing to measurement error, the first estimate was discarded.
Trade declined owing to the closure of the mountain road.
Precision Matters
Owing to overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
owing to
vs.Means because of or as a result of the stated cause.
because of
Means as a result of; introduces a noun phrase naming a cause.
owing to
vs.Means because of or as a result of the stated cause.
due to
Means caused by or attributable to a stated factor.
owing to
vs.Means because of or as a result of the stated cause.
in light of
Means considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
owing to
vs.Means because of or as a result of the stated cause.
in the wake of
Means following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
Test owing to in Context
The exposure is identified as the cause of the collapse.
1
The eastern wall collapsed ___ prolonged exposure to groundwater.