the causes of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the causes of' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to introduce a list of reasons for something. For example: "The causes of global warming are burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tackling the causes of poverty.

Independent

The causes of crime are complex.

The Economist

WHAT are the causes of these deaths?

The New York Times

The causes of that poverty are complex.

Independent

The causes of the shortages are multiple.

The New York Times - Health

The causes of these abnormalities are complex.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The causes of obesity are everywhere.

The New York Times

The causes of presenteeism are varied.

Independent

What are the causes of hunger?

The New York Times

The causes of most cases remain unknown.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Considering the causes of RLS.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex issues, use "the causes of" to introduce a clear and structured explanation of contributing factors. This helps in breaking down multifaceted problems into understandable components.

Common error

Avoid presenting a single cause when using "the causes of" if multiple factors are at play. Acknowledge the complexity by identifying various contributing elements rather than simplifying it to one primary reason.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the causes of" serves as a determiner followed by a noun phrase, functioning primarily to introduce the reasons or origins behind a specific event, situation, or phenomenon. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the causes of" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent phrase used to introduce explanations for various phenomena. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is correct and versatile, appearing frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedias. When using the phrase, aim for clarity by identifying multiple contributing factors rather than oversimplifying to a single cause. Consider using alternatives like "the reasons for" or "the origins of" to nuance your expression. Remember that "the causes of" seeks to explain origins while "the effects of" describes consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the reasons for

Focuses on the rationale or justification behind something, instead of the originating factors.

the origins of

Highlights the beginning or source from which something originates.

the sources of

Emphasizes where something comes from, particularly in terms of information or resources.

the determinants of

Stresses the factors that decisively affect or determine an outcome.

the factors contributing to

Focuses on the elements that collectively add to a particular result.

the underlying reasons for

Highlights deeper, less obvious reasons behind a situation.

the genesis of

Emphasizes the initial creation or development of something.

the roots of

Suggests a more fundamental or deeply embedded origin.

the mechanisms of

Focuses on the processes or systems by which something occurs.

the drivers of

Emphasizes the forces that propel or stimulate a particular outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "the causes of" in a sentence?

You can use "the causes of" to introduce a list or explanation of the reasons behind a specific event, issue, or phenomenon. For example, "The causes of climate change are multifaceted."

What are some alternatives to "the causes of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the reasons for", "the origins of", or "the factors contributing to", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "the cause of" or "the causes of"?

The choice between "the cause of" and "the causes of" depends on whether you are referring to a single primary reason or multiple contributing factors. Use "the causes of" when there are several reasons or factors involved.

What is the difference between "the effects of" and "the causes of"?

"The effects of" refers to the consequences or results of something, whereas "the causes of" refers to the reasons or origins behind it. They represent opposite sides of a cause-and-effect relationship.