due to

preposition

: as a result of : because of
due to the complaints of uptight parents … he lost his jobHerbert Gold
Using Due to: Usage Guide

The objection to due to as a preposition is only a continuation of disagreements that began in the 18th century over the proper uses of owing and due. Due to is as grammatically sound as owing to, which is frequently recommended in its place. It has been and is used by reputable writers and has been recognized as standard for decades. There is no solid reason to avoid due to.

Examples of due to in a Sentence

evening classes were cancelled due to heavy snow
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Parts of California were also under Air Quality, Wildfire Smoke, Windblown Dust and Ash Advisories through Thursday due to the Hughes Fire, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 23 Jan. 2025 This photo is from a source whose name is being withheld due to fear of retaliation. Kenny Torrella, Vox, 23 Jan. 2025 Re-ignition Risk: Even after being extinguished, lithium-ion batteries can reignite due to residual heat and thermal runaway effects that can impact surrounding cells. Tim Bajarin, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 Russia’s economy has thrived despite international sanctions due to its oil, gas and mineral exports, but, according to Reuters, labor shortages and high interest rates have put strain on the economy. Rachel Wolf, Fox News, 23 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for due to 

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of due to was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near due to

Cite this Entry

“Due to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/due%20to. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

due to

preposition
: because of

More from Merriam-Webster on due to

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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