a causal relationship between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a causal relationship between' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which two or more events are related in such a way that one event causes the other(s). For example, "Recent studies have suggested a causal relationship between increased exposure to air pollution and a rise in asthma diagnoses."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This was assuming a causal relationship between the two.

The Guardian

Let's take the statement "there is a causal relationship between exposure to violent media and aggression".

The Guardian

In fact, researchers have had a hard time establishing a causal relationship between alcohol and aggression at all.

The Guardian

That does not mean a causal relationship between depression and dementia has been established; it hasn't.

The New York Times

At the very least, ThomsonOne's numbers do not prove a causal relationship between fund size and performance.

TechCrunch

These data suggest a causal relationship between regulation of DNA damage upon hyperoxia and life span.

Molecular and Cellular Pediatrics

Additional studies are required to demonstrate a causal relationship between these variables.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

This hypothesis is supported by the absence of a causal relationship between energy consumption and growth.

Energy Transitions

There is a causal relationship between these conditions or is the association just coincidental?

The Journal of Headache and Pain

There is a causal relationship between parents' investment in children and children's care provision.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A causal relationship between chronic inflammation and cancer has been established for many solid tumors [ 48].

BMC Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing scientific research, clearly differentiate between correlation and causation by explicitly stating "a causal relationship between" only when there's strong evidence to support it. Use correlation if there's only an association between the two variables.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because two events occur together, one causes the other. Always seek substantial evidence before claiming "a causal relationship between" variables. Consider the possibility of confounding variables or reverse causation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a causal relationship between" functions as a noun phrase, establishing a relationship of cause and effect. It's typically used to assert a connection where one thing directly influences another. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a causal relationship between" serves to explicitly link two elements by stating that one causes the other. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially within scientific and news contexts. It's crucial to use this phrase accurately, ensuring solid evidence supports the claim of causation, thus avoiding the common pitfall of mistaking correlation for causation. When unsure about a definite link, consider alternatives like "correlation" or "association" to more accurately represent the relationship between the variables.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cause-and-effect relationship between

Replaces "causal" with "cause-and-effect", emphasizing the direct connection of cause leading to effect.

a causative link between

Uses "causative link" to denote a direct connection where one thing causes another.

evidence of causation between

Highlights the presence of evidence supporting a cause-and-effect relationship.

a direct correlation between

Implies a measurable and direct relationship, though it doesn't explicitly state causation.

a demonstrable effect of...on

Focuses on the effect one variable has on another, suggesting a confirmed causal link.

a proven impact of...on

Highlights the impact of one variable on another, implying a verified causal effect.

a deterministic relationship between

Suggests a strict, predictable relationship where one event necessarily leads to another.

association implies causation

Suggests that the association may be indicative of cause and effect. It's a bit informal compared to QUERY

a correlation hinting at causality between

Highlights a correlation as a suggestive hint that a causal relation may exists. It's bit weaker compared to QUERY.

a functional dependency between

Highlights the interdependence of two variables and the influence of one variable on another.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a causal relationship between"?

Use "a causal relationship between" when you have sufficient evidence to prove that changes in one variable directly cause changes in another. Avoid using it based solely on observation of a correlation.

What's the difference between "a causal relationship between" and correlation?

"A causal relationship between" implies that one variable directly influences another, whereas correlation simply indicates that two variables tend to move together but does not prove causation. Correlation can be a hint about a causal relationship, but further research is usually required to establish it.

What are some alternatives to "a causal relationship between" if I only suspect a connection?

If you suspect a connection but cannot prove causation, consider using phrases like "a correlation between", "an association between", or "a link between".

How can I avoid making false claims about "a causal relationship between" variables?

To avoid false claims, conduct thorough research, consider potential confounding variables, and ensure that you have substantial evidence before concluding that "a causal relationship between" two variables exists. Be clear about limitations in your research.