contributed to the cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contributed to the cause" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's involvement or support for a particular issue, movement, or initiative. Example: "Her generous donation significantly contributed to the cause of environmental conservation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

On the balance of probability, this contributed to the cause of death," they said.

The Guardian

He was always the symbol of the Palestinian people and contributed to the cause more than anyone else".

The New Yorker

Evaluators will find it good, for he has contributed to the cause of justice in this country and to its dispensation.

The New York Times

Their arrest contributed to the cause – the Charter 77 manifesto reached the west apace and at some point was even more widely discussed abroad than in Czechoslovakia.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nearly every imaginable image of what telephones mean to people is captured in these telephones, all contributed to the cause by France Telecom, which initiated the project.

The New York Times - Arts

Mantua contributed to the cause of the Risorgimento (movement for national independence) and was joined to the Kingdom of Italy in 1866.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

He made tactical errors; his order to vacate the first trench after it was cleared "undoubtedly contributed to the causes of failure".

Wikipedia

Only two, Steve Stricker and Ben Curtis, failed to contribute to the cause, losing to Justin Rose and Ian Poulter.

The Guardian - Sport

We have no desire to contribute to the cause of literature in so backhanded a fashion.

The New Yorker

Fifty dollars from a child in Queens who gave up her birthday party to contribute to the cause.

The New York Times

At the same time, wealthy proponents of gun control seem more willing to contribute to the cause.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase to highlight a direct or indirect influence on a particular outcome or objective. The contribution may be tangible (like money) or intangible (like inspiration).

Common error

Avoid overstating the significance of a contribution. While someone may have "contributed to the cause", ensure the scale of their contribution is accurately reflected in the surrounding context. Don't inflate minor actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contributed to the cause" functions as a verbal phrase indicating that someone or something has had a positive impact on a particular objective or movement. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contributed to the cause" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe support for a particular objective. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal communication. While maintaining a neutral to professional tone, it effectively conveys the impact of someone's involvement. To enhance clarity, ensure that the cause is clearly identified. Consider using synonyms like "supported the cause" or "advanced the cause" depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Supported the cause

Emphasizes the act of providing assistance or backing.

Aided the cause

Highlights the assistance provided, often implying help in overcoming obstacles.

Advanced the cause

Focuses on making progress or promoting the cause forward.

Furthered the cause

Similar to 'advanced', but can suggest a more comprehensive or long-term effort.

Promoted the cause

Emphasizes efforts to raise awareness and garner support.

Assisted the cause

Focuses on the helping aspect, but may be less impactful than 'aided'.

Played a role in the cause

Indicates involvement without specifying the extent or type of contribution.

Helped the cause

A more general term indicating assistance.

Made a contribution to the cause

Formal way to express involvement with an emphasis on significance.

Served the cause

Implies dedication and commitment to the goals of the cause.

FAQs

How can I use "contributed to the cause" in a sentence?

You can use "contributed to the cause" to describe someone or something that has helped to advance a particular goal or initiative. For example, "Her donation significantly contributed to the cause of environmental conservation."

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

A more formal alternative is "made a contribution to the cause". This emphasizes the significance and impact of the action.

Are there synonyms for "contributed to the cause" that emphasize different aspects of support?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "supported the cause" for general assistance, "advanced the cause" to highlight progress, or "aided the cause" to emphasize overcoming obstacles.

Is it correct to say "attributed to the cause" instead of "contributed to the cause"?

"Attributed to the cause" implies assigning responsibility or causality, while "contributed to the cause" suggests active support or assistance. The choice depends on the intended meaning; if you mean something led to a cause, use attributed, if you mean something helped a cause, use contributed.