* 때문에 (ttaemune): This is the most common and versatile way to say "because of." It's generally neutral and can be used in most situations.
* 때문이다 (ttaemunida): This is similar to 때문에, but it's used when the "because of" phrase is the main focus of the sentence. It's often used as a short answer. For example, "Why is it like this?" "It's because of this."
* 덕분에 (deokbune): This translates to "thanks to" or "because of" but implies a positive consequence. It expresses gratitude or a positive outcome resulting from the cause.
* 탓에 (tae): This translates to "because of" or "due to," but it usually implies a negative consequence or blame.
Here are examples:
* 비 때문에 학교에 가지 못했다 (bi ttaemune hakgyoe gaji mothaetta): Because of the rain, I couldn't go to school. (Using 때문에)
* 늦은 것은 교통 체증 때문이다 (neujeun geoseun gyotong chejeung ttaemunida): The reason I'm late is because of the traffic jam. (Using 때문이다)
* 선생님 덕분에 시험에 합격했다 (seonsaengnim deokbune siheome hapgyeokhaetta): Thanks to my teacher, I passed the exam. (Using 덕분에)
* 피곤한 것은 밤새도록 일한 탓이다 (pigonhan geoseun bamsaedorok ilhan taeida): I'm tired because of working all night. (Using 탓에 - implying a negative consequence of the work)
The best choice depends on the context and the intended meaning. For most situations, 때문에 (ttaemune) is a safe and appropriate option.