cause to hurt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause to hurt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an action that leads to someone experiencing pain or discomfort, either physically or emotionally. Example: "The harsh words he spoke were meant to cause her to hurt, but they only made her stronger."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The movie had multiple purposes: to advance the conservative cause, to hurt Hillary Clinton's chances for victory, and to make money.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

They may not cause a woman to hurt herself or someone else, but in some cases, they do lead to violence.

WikiHow

We all have to make a choice: You can either anguish over those who cause you to hurt, or you can thrive off those who only want happiness for you.

Huffington Post

If you've done something to cause others to hurt, apologize.

WikiHow

If you don't, this could cause muscles to hurt or stretch too far.

WikiHow

Avoid flossing too roughly around the affected area because this could cause it to hurt more and to bleed.

WikiHow

This is perfectly normal and you should never attempt to force the corset closed - as this may cause you to hurt yourself or damage the corset.

WikiHow

The rush of adrenaline that you receive from this game may cause you to hurt someone if you are not careful.

WikiHow

Relationship damage: Remind them that many people have relationship problems due to drinking, as it can affect judgment and cause people to hurt others, even without intending to, because alcohol inhibits the normal restraint.

WikiHow

No. Have you ever held a job that caused something to hurt at the end of the day?

The New York Times

Have you ever held a job that caused something to hurt at the end of the day?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause to hurt", consider the context to clarify whether the harm is physical or emotional. Be specific if the type of harm is particularly relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "cause to hurt" when a more precise term like "injure", "wound", or "traumatize" would more accurately describe the specific harm being inflicted. Using a more descriptive verb provides greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause to hurt" functions as a causal connector, linking an action or event with its negative consequence, which is either physical or emotional pain. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

39%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cause to hurt" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that connects an action with the resulting pain or harm, whether physical or emotional. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While versatile, it's advisable to consider whether a more precise term might better capture the specific type of harm. This phrase appears most frequently in Wiki, News & Media, and Science, maintaining a generally neutral tone suitable for diverse contexts. When writing, ensure the context is clear about the nature of the "hurt", and consider more specific synonyms when greater precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inflict pain on

Focuses specifically on the act of causing physical pain. Differs by using a more direct action verb.

lead to injury

Highlights the result being a physical injury. More specific than general hurt.

give rise to suffering

Emphasizes the emotional or psychological pain caused. Uses a more formal tone.

be the reason for pain

A more descriptive alternative, focusing on causality. Slightly less direct.

be responsible for hurting

Assigns responsibility for the act of hurting. Slightly less direct.

bring about discomfort

Refers to a more mild form of hurt, such as unease or slight pain. Lower intensity than "hurt".

precipitate agony

Implies a sudden and intense experience of pain. High emotional intensity.

induce suffering in

Highlights the act of inducing, or bringing about, suffering. More clinical in tone.

trigger pain

Suggests a specific event or action that sets off the experience of pain. More instantaneous.

contribute to soreness

Points to contributing factors towards a pain condition or situation, not the singular direct cause. Less intense.

FAQs

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

You can use "cause to hurt" to describe an action or situation that leads to someone experiencing pain, either physical or emotional. For example: "His words were intended to cause her to hurt.".

What are some alternatives to "cause to hurt"?

Alternatives include "inflict pain on", "lead to injury", or "give rise to suffering" depending on the context and the desired level of formality.

Is "cause to hurt" formal or informal?

"Cause to hurt" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more precise language might be preferred in academic or professional settings.

What's the difference between "cause to hurt" and "cause pain"?

"Cause pain" is typically used to refer to physical pain, whereas "cause to hurt" can encompass both physical and emotional distress. However, the distinction is slight, and they can often be used interchangeably.