Cause
/kɔːz/
Definitions
2 meaningsSomething that produces an effect, result, or consequence.
/kɔːz/
A person, thing, action, or event that makes something else happen.
What was the cause of the fire?
💡 Simply: A cause is what makes something else happen. Like if you drop a glass, the cause is you dropping it, and the effect is the glass breaking.
👶 For kids: What makes something happen.
More Examples
The main cause of the problem is lack of funding.
How It's Used
"Scientists are still researching the cause of the disease."
"The court will determine the cause of the accident."
To be the reason for something happening.
/kɔːz/
To make something happen.
The storm caused widespread flooding.
💡 Simply: To cause something means to make it happen. If you cause a problem, you created the problem.
👶 For kids: To make something happen.
More Examples
Don't cause any trouble.
How It's Used
"His actions caused a lot of trouble."
"The new law is intended to cause change."
Idioms & expressions
cause a stir
To create a commotion or disturbance.
"His unexpected arrival caused quite a stir."
From Old French *cause, from Latin causa "reason, case, lawsuit".
The word 'cause' has been used in a similar manner throughout history, often related to legal and philosophical discussions.
Memory tip
Think of a 'cause' as something that makes something else happen, like a cause and effect.
Word Origin
"reason, case, lawsuit"