cause a scene

USAGE SUMMARY

"cause a scene" is not correct and usable in written English.
In spoken English, it is possible to say "cause a scene" to refer to a situation in which someone behaves dramatically or inappropriately in public, but the correct way of saying this in written English is "create a scene". For example: He started shouting and causing a commotion, so much so that he created a scene in the restaurant.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Can we cause a scene?

The Guardian - Music

I'm a bit nervous that I'll blurt this out and cause a scene.

Independent

Once the Brit Awards was the top place to cause a scene.

The Guardian - Music

There's no reason to cause a scene just because I'm not getting the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

When something goes wrong please don't shout down the phone, or cause a scene in reception.

The Guardian

If it doesn't, then yes, ask: "But quietly; and you shouldn't cause a scene if they don't have one".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

I'm causing a scene?

The New Yorker

Then finally she caused a scene in a local church.

The New York Times - Magazine

They have demanded trades, threatened retirement and generally caused a scene.

The New York Times

Stubbornly insisting on my seat would only have caused a scene at this point.

The New Yorker

Mr Sandler was arrested last year in Times Square after allegedly causing a scene that blocked traffic.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "cause a scene" is commonly used in spoken language, in formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "create a disturbance" or "make a spectacle of oneself" to maintain grammatical correctness and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "cause a scene" in academic papers or professional reports. Opt for more formal alternatives that maintain a higher level of grammatical precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause a scene" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe an action that disrupts public order or draws unwanted attention. Ludwig AI indicates that the expression is more common in spoken than written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "cause a scene" is widely used and understood, especially in spoken English, it's often considered grammatically incorrect in formal written contexts. Ludwig AI suggests favoring alternatives like "create a scene", "make a spectacle of oneself", or "start a commotion" for written communications that require a higher level of formality. The phrase frequently appears in news and media, often describing disruptive or inappropriate behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a disturbance

Replaces "cause a scene" with a more formal term for disrupting peace.

start a commotion

Highlights the disruptive nature of the scene being caused.

make a spectacle of oneself

Focuses on the individual creating the scene and their actions.

kick up a fuss

An informal way to describe creating a scene by complaining or protesting.

raise a ruckus

Implies a noisy and disruptive scene.

make an exhibition

Suggests an ostentatious or inappropriate display.

instigate a disruption

Focuses on initiating a disturbance or interruption.

provoke a public outcry

Suggests the scene causes widespread disapproval or protest.

generate a hullabaloo

Describes a chaotic and noisy situation.

stir up trouble

Emphasizes the negative consequences and potential conflict.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "cause a scene"?

In formal writing, consider using phrases like "create a disturbance", "make a spectacle of oneself", or "start a commotion".

Is it grammatically correct to say "cause a scene"?

While commonly used in spoken English, "cause a scene" is generally considered grammatically incorrect in formal written English. It's better to use "create a scene".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "cause a scene"?

The phrase "cause a scene" is appropriate in informal contexts, such as casual conversations or less formal writing. However, avoid using it in formal or academic settings.

What does it mean to "cause a scene"?

To "cause a scene" means to behave in a way that creates a public disturbance or draws unwanted attention, often through dramatic or inappropriate actions.