While it may seem like a single word, "due to" functions as a preposition, introducing a noun phrase that explains the cause or reason for something.
Example:
* The delay due to the snowstorm was frustrating.
In this sentence, "due to" introduces the noun phrase "the snowstorm," which explains the reason for the delay.
Other examples:
* The accident was due to careless driving.
* Her success is due to her hard work and dedication.
It's important to note that "due to" is often confused with "because of." While they often have similar meanings, there are some subtle differences in usage.
* Due to is generally used when the noun phrase following it is the *cause* of something, whereas because of is used when the noun phrase explains the *reason* for something.
For example:
* The game was canceled due to rain. (rain is the cause of the cancellation)
* The game was canceled because of the rain. (rain is the reason for the cancellation)
While both phrases work in this case, "due to" is more formal and less common in everyday speech.