a possible cause of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible cause of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential reasons or factors that may lead to a particular outcome or effect. Example: "The researchers are investigating a possible cause of the sudden increase in local wildlife populations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Baden said autoerotic asphyxiation remained a possible cause of death.

The Guardian - Film

Fire officials said they were investigating her smoking as a possible cause of the fire.

The New York Times

We never completely rule out random chance as a possible cause of any result we see.

The New York Times

It also said diesel exhaust was a possible cause of bladder cancer.

The New York Times - Health

Hardening and deterioration of the artery at these locations may be a possible cause of VWF.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

We briefly discuss a possible cause of the pre-flare emission peculiarities.

Advances in Space Research

The author stated that sinus barotrauma might be a possible cause of the headache.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Faulting is, of course, a possible cause of the density contrast, but other explanations (erosion, etc).

Earth, Planets and Space

Secondarily, infection associated with dental implant may become a possible cause of ORN.

International Journal of Implant Dentistry

We consider a possible cause of differences in results in Section 3.3.1.

Computational Astrophysics and Cosmology

CVST is a possible cause of cerebral venous infarct or parenchymal hematoma.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a possible cause of", ensure that you present it as a hypothesis or potential explanation rather than a definitive statement, especially in scientific or analytical writing.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a possible cause of" as a confirmed or definitive explanation without sufficient evidence. Use qualifiers like "may be", "could be", or "is potentially" to maintain appropriate hedging and avoid misleading the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible cause of" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a potential explanation or reason for a particular outcome or event. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase commonly prefaces theories or hypotheses in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

22%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a possible cause of" serves as a versatile phrase for introducing potential explanations or contributing factors across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English, supported by a wealth of real-world examples primarily in scientific and news contexts. When employing this phrase, remember to convey it as a hypothesis rather than a definitive conclusion, and consider alternatives like "a potential reason for" or "a likely factor in" to fine-tune your intended meaning. By avoiding overstatements and maintaining appropriate hedging, you can effectively communicate possibilities with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential reason for

Focuses on 'reason' rather than 'cause', suggesting a more cognitive or intentional explanation.

a likely factor in

Emphasizes the 'factor' aspect, implying that it's one of several contributing elements.

a potential source of

Highlights the 'source', indicating where something originates or stems from.

a possible origin of

Shifts focus to the 'origin', pinpointing the beginning or initial point.

a contributing element to

Stresses the 'contributing' nature, suggesting it plays a part but isn't solely responsible.

a conceivable explanation for

Emphasizes the 'explanation', offering a rationale or justification.

a plausible trigger for

Highlights the 'trigger', implying an event that initiates something.

a suspected factor of

Suggests an element that could probably cause an effect

a hypothetical cause of

Specifies that this is just a theory and has not been proven yet.

a theoretical precursor to

Emphasizes 'precursor', indicating it precedes and potentially leads to something.

FAQs

How can I use "a possible cause of" in a sentence?

You can use "a possible cause of" to introduce a potential explanation for an event or phenomenon. For example: "The scientist suggested that stress was "a possible cause of" the patient's illness."

What are some alternatives to "a possible cause of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a potential reason for", "a likely factor in", or "a potential source of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a possible cause of" or "the possible cause of"?

Using "a possible cause of" suggests one of several potential causes, while "the possible cause of" implies it is the only or most significant potential cause. Choose the phrasing that best reflects the known information and level of certainty.

When should I use "a possible cause of" versus "a likely cause of"?

"A possible cause of" is appropriate when presenting a speculative or less substantiated explanation. "A likely cause of" suggests a higher degree of probability or evidence supporting the explanation.