possible cause of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible cause of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing potential reasons or factors that may lead to a particular outcome or event. Example: "The researchers are investigating the possible cause of the sudden increase in temperature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Another possible cause of the tragedy was contaminated medicine.

The Guardian

Baden said autoerotic asphyxiation remained a possible cause of death.

The Guardian - Film

Officials said investigations are ongoing and refused to speculate on the possible cause of the accident.

The Guardian

It is emerging that friendly fire was the possible cause of two of the deaths.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fire officials said they were investigating her smoking as a possible cause of the fire.

The New York Times

Specificity: This means the likelihood that skinny jeans are the only possible cause of compartment syndrome.

The Guardian

Does our government believe that a terrorist act is the only possible cause of reactor accidents?

The New York Times

Another possible cause of military discontent is Mr Chávez's close ties with Cuba.

The Economist

We never completely rule out random chance as a possible cause of any result we see.

The New York Times

Infection was the most worrisome possible cause of her hypotension, but seemed less likely.

The New York Times

Another possible cause of a general depression was suggested by Keynes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "possible cause of", ensure that you provide context and acknowledge the uncertainty or possibility, rather than presenting it as a definitive cause.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "possible cause of" as the definitive reason without sufficient evidence. Always qualify the statement with phrases like 'may be', 'could be', or 'potentially' to maintain accuracy and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possible cause of" functions as a noun modifier, introducing a potential reason or explanation for a particular event or situation. It's commonly used to express uncertainty or speculation about the origin of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "possible cause of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce a potential reason or explanation for an event or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English. It appears most commonly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional tone. While using this phrase, it is essential to acknowledge the uncertainty and avoid presenting it as a definitive explanation. Consider alternatives like "potential reason for" or "likely factor in" to vary your language while maintaining clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential reason for

Emphasizes the reasoning or justification behind an event or situation, rather than simply identifying a cause. Uses different wording.

likely factor in

Highlights a contributing element with a degree of probability, shifting the focus to influence. Uses different wording.

conceivable source of

Suggests that something could originate from a particular point, with an element of imagination or possibility. Uses more formal wording.

plausible explanation for

Focuses on the credibility and understandability of a reason, rather than its direct causal effect. Uses different wording.

suspected origin of

Implies an element of doubt or investigation, highlighting that the cause is not yet definitively proven. Uses different wording.

contributing factor to

Highlights one of several reasons that lead to certain event but is not the only one. Uses slightly more formal wording.

one reason for

Indicates one reason of potentially many, creating a distinction compared to the query. Uses different wording and sentence structure.

a potential trigger for

Suggests that a particular cause initiated or set off an event but is not the ultimate cause. Uses different wording.

a possible precursor to

Highlights that the considered cause led to the actual reason. Uses different wording.

a theoretical basis for

Indicates that cause is only supposed and scientifically unproven. Uses different wording.

FAQs

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

You can use "possible cause of" to introduce a potential explanation for an event or condition. For example: "Contaminated water is a "possible cause of" the outbreak."

What are some alternatives to saying "possible cause of"?

Alternatives include "potential reason for", "likely factor in", or "conceivable source of", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "possible cause of" or "potential cause of"?

Both "possible cause of" and "potential cause of" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, although "potential" may suggest a slightly higher degree of likelihood.

What is the difference between "possible cause of" and "direct cause of"?

"Possible cause of" indicates a potential explanation that requires further investigation, while "direct cause of" implies a confirmed and immediate reason for an event or condition. The former is speculative, whereas the latter is definitive.