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account of

C1 formal

Used in fixed expressions such as 'on account of' (because of) or 'take account of' (to consider), rather than as a standalone phrasal verb.

In plain English

Because of something, or to think about something carefully.

What does "account of" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 B2 idiomatic formal

In the fixed phrase 'on account of': because of a particular reason.

"The match was postponed on account of heavy rain."

2 C1 idiomatic formal

In the fixed phrase 'take account of': to consider or include something in a decision or plan.

"The judge must take account of all the evidence before reaching a verdict."

Usage tip

Not a true standalone phrasal verb in modern English. Functions mainly within fixed phrases. 'On account of' is a formal/written alternative to 'because of'. 'Take account of' means to consider something when making a decision.

Words that pair with "account of"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

on account of take account of by all accounts on no account

How to conjugate "account of"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
account of
I/you/we/they
3rd person
accounts of
he/she/it
Past simple
accounted of
yesterday
Past participle
accounted of
have + pp
-ing form
accounting of
continuous

Hear "account of" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "account of" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "account of"

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because of considering due to on the basis of

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