cause a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause a" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is a shortened version of the phrase "because of a" and is often used in informal or casual writing. Example: "I couldn't go to the party cause a family emergency came up." In this sentence, "cause a" is used to express the reason or cause for not being able to attend the party.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That would cause a sensation.

Independent

Turn left: cause a pileup.

The New Yorker

I didn't cause a holdup.

The New York Times

It can only cause a terrible war".

The New Yorker

It may even cause a loss.

The New York Times

'RIGOLETTO' This one might cause a ruckus.

The New York Times - Arts

"Hybridising can cause a lost of biodiversity.

Independent

He thought this might cause a crisis.

The New Yorker

Other mechanisms might also cause a knockout.

The Economist

That would cause a tsunami of opposition.

The Economist

"Can we cause a scene?

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause a", ensure the noun that follows accurately reflects the intended consequence. For instance, "cause a delay" is more precise than "cause something".

Common error

Avoid using "cause a" in highly formal writing where more precise and sophisticated vocabulary might be preferred, such as "precipitate" or "engender".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause a" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It indicates the action of bringing about or initiating a particular outcome or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and used to express reasons and consequences, exemplified in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

33%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cause a" is a versatile and grammatically sound verb phrase used to indicate that something leads to a particular result. As Ludwig AI points out, it's often used to express reasons and consequences. While appropriate for a range of contexts, it's most frequently found in news and media and wiki-based content. For formal or scientific writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives. Its frequency and consistent application across various sources confirm its widespread acceptability and utility in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lead to a

Emphasizes the consequential aspect, highlighting how something results in a specific outcome.

give rise to a

Suggests the creation or emergence of something as a result of an action.

bring about a

Focuses on the act of making something happen or become realized.

trigger a

Highlights the initiation of a process or event, often implying a chain reaction.

spark a

Suggests a sudden initiation, often of something energetic or impactful.

generate a

Focuses on the creation or production of something, often in a more abstract sense.

produce a

Emphasizes the creation or manufacture of something tangible.

instigate a

Highlights the act of initiating something, often with a negative connotation.

set off a

Suggests the start of a chain of events or a reaction.

elicit a

Focuses on evoking a response or reaction from someone or something.

FAQs

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

Use "cause a" to indicate that something leads to a specific result. For example, "The heavy rain could "cause a flood"".

What are some alternatives to "cause a"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "lead to a", "give rise to a", or "bring about a".

Is it better to say "cause a problem" or "create a problem"?

While both are acceptable, "cause a problem" implies the problem was unintentional, while "create a problem" suggests a more deliberate action. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "cause a delay" and "result in a delay"?

"Cause a delay" emphasizes the action that leads to the delay. "Result in a delay" focuses on the delay as the outcome. Both are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings.