cause someone to do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause someone to do" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an action or influence that leads someone to perform a specific task or behavior. Example: "The unexpected news caused her to do a double take."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But I can imagine the pain or circumstances that might cause someone to do that".

Huffington Post

And, I couldn't help but think, the next time a problem arises with a classmate, when a temper may cause someone to do something they'd later regret, simply remembering the sight of their teacher singing Black Sabbath with them, might make them laugh, instead.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Get someone to do it with you!

WikiHow

Never get someone to do your homework.

WikiHow

Maybe hearing the truth causes someone to make a negative comment or have a reaction you don't like.

WikiHow

What causes someone to flee their home?

The Guardian - Books

What causes someone to become a stalker?

The Guardian

What causes someone to become a southpaw?

Huffington Post

"The victim stated that he had done nothing to cause someone to follow him".

Huffington Post

Concussions and other brain trauma on the football field do not cause someone to commit suicide.

The New York Times - Sports

While I don't believe that stories cause someone to commit violence, I do believe that as a creator, I have a responsibility not to provide a game plan for criminals shopping for information.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "cause someone to do", ensure that the causal link between the initial event and the subsequent action is clear and logical. Avoid vague connections.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the word "cause" in your writing. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "lead", "prompt", or "induce" to add nuance and sophistication to your prose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause someone to do" functions as a causative verb phrase, indicating that one action or event results in another person performing a subsequent action. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cause someone to do" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express that an action or event leads to a person performing a specific action. Ludwig confirms that it is correct. While not exceedingly common, it's appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. Alternatives like "make someone do" or "lead someone to do" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Remember to ensure a clear and logical connection when illustrating the causal relationship.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make someone do

Replaces "cause" with "make", simplifying the phrasing while retaining the causal relationship.

lead someone to do

Substitutes "cause" with "lead", emphasizing the guiding aspect of the influence.

induce someone to do

Uses "induce" instead of "cause", suggesting persuasion or encouragement.

prompt someone to do

Replaces "cause" with "prompt", indicating a more immediate instigation.

motivate someone to do

Substitutes "cause" with "motivate", highlighting the inspirational aspect.

drive someone to do

Uses "drive" instead of "cause", suggesting a strong, compelling force.

influence someone to do

Replaces "cause" with "influence", broadening the scope of the impact.

persuade someone to do

Substitutes "cause" with "persuade", emphasizing the convincing aspect.

compel someone to do

Uses "compel" instead of "cause", indicating a sense of obligation or necessity.

force someone to do

Replaces "cause" with "force", emphasizing a lack of choice.

FAQs

How can I use "cause someone to do" in a sentence?

The phrase "cause someone to do" indicates that an action or event leads another person to perform a specific action. For example: "The heavy rain caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle."

What are some alternatives to "cause someone to do"?

You can use alternatives like "make someone do", "lead someone to do", or "prompt someone to do" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "cause someone to do" and "make someone do"?

While both phrases indicate that one thing leads to another's action, "cause someone to do" often suggests a more indirect or less forceful influence than "make someone do". "Make" implies more direct control or compulsion.

Can "cause someone to do" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "cause someone to do" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider the specific context and whether a more precise or nuanced alternative might be more suitable, such as "induce someone to do" for persuasion or "compel someone to do" for obligation.