ESL Usage Lesson: Just because [A] doesn’t mean that [B]

This lesson teaches students the correct usage of “Just because … doesn’t mean that …”, with several examples and a practice worksheet.

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Just because [A] doesn’t mean that [B]

Although [A] happened, [B] will not necessarily happen as a result.

[A] is true, but [B] is not necessarily true as a result.

Examples:

· Just because your mother is angry at you doesn’t mean that she doesn’t love you.

· Just because the car is dirty doesn’t mean it doesn’t run well.

· Just because you study hard doesn’t mean that you will pass the test.

· Just because it’s Saturday doesn’t mean that you have to sleep late.

· Just because my room is dirty doesn’t mean that I’m disorganized.

· Just because you’re healthy now doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t quit smoking.

· Just because you think you are a good worker doesn’t necessarily mean that you deserve more money than your coworkers.

· Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean that we can’t have fun!

· Just because you think you’re smarter than me doesn’t mean that it’s true!

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Change these sentences to “just because . . . doesn’t mean that”.

(The first one is done for you.):

1. Evan had a steak for lunch, but he might not be full.

Just because Evan had a steak for lunch doesn’t mean that he’s full.

2. I know your girlfriend is angry at you, but she still loves you.

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3. I stay up late every night, but I get plenty of sleep.

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4. Sandy did all of her homework, but maybe the teacher won’t be satisfied.

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5. I didn’t answer my cell phone, but this doesn’t mean that I didn’t want to talk to you.

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