[mesmark]

I had a student ask when to use "so" and when to use "because"

I needed eggs, so I went to the store.

I went to the store because I needed eggs.

I know in simple cases like these it's a matter of which act is more important or stressed and they are often interchangeable. However, does anyone know of a simple rule?


I also told her "because" is probably more common with cause or reason and "so" more so with results. That's the best I could get out at the time.

I listen to music, because it relaxes me.

I found myself at the store, so I ate lunch a little early.