to bring about

USAGE SUMMARY

"to bring about" is a common and correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It means to cause or make something happen. Example: The new policies implemented by the government will hopefully bring about positive changes in the economy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Neither would be easy to bring about.

The Economist

"We want to bring about lasting improvement".

The Guardian

"Is this necessary to bring about competition?

The New York Times

Because he wants to bring about change.

The New York Times

But how to bring about these changes?

The Washington Post

The question, then, is how to bring about decentralization.

The New York Times

Collaborating with the enemy to bring about peace was treasonous.

Independent

This is exactly what Bin Laden hoped to bring about.

The New York Times

Together they are expected to bring about $55 million.

The New York Times - Arts

The work is expected to bring about $10 million.

The New York Times

Can this mechanism be used to bring about institutional change?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to bring about", ensure that the subject performing the action is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "Changes were brought about", specify "The new policies brought about changes".

Common error

While "to bring about" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in contexts that demand simpler language. Alternatives like "to cause" or "to create" can sometimes be more effective and direct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to bring about" functions as an infinitive phrase acting as an adverbial of purpose. It modifies a verb by explaining the reason or intention behind an action, indicating what someone hopes or intends to achieve. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

30%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to bring about" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to indicate the purpose or intention behind an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and versatile. Its usage spans various contexts, from scientific research and news reporting to academic discussions, reflecting its broad applicability in formal and neutral settings. Alternatives such as "to cause" or "to generate" offer similar meanings, but "to bring about" often emphasizes a deliberate and effortful process. While highly versatile, writers should aim to vary their word choice to avoid overuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to cause

This is a direct and simple alternative, focusing on the action of making something happen.

to generate

This suggests creating or producing something, often in a more technical or scientific context.

to produce

Similar to 'generate', but can also refer to yielding or providing something as a result.

to effect

This implies having an impact or influence that leads to a specific outcome.

to instigate

This suggests initiating or starting something, often with the connotation of stirring up action.

to trigger

This implies setting off a chain of events or reactions that lead to a specific result.

to create

This focuses on the act of making something new or original.

to accomplish

This emphasizes the successful completion or achievement of a particular outcome.

to realize

This conveys the idea of making something real or actual.

to give rise to

This indicates causing something to start or exist, often in a more gradual or natural way.

FAQs

How can I use "to bring about" in a sentence?

Use "to bring about" to indicate causing something to happen. For instance, "The reforms are intended to bring about positive change", or "What actions are appropriate "to bring about sovereignty"?".

What are some alternatives to "to bring about"?

You can use alternatives such as "to cause", "to generate", or "to produce" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference in formality between "to bring about" and "to cause"?

"To bring about" can be slightly more formal than "to cause", but both are generally appropriate in most formal writing. Choose the one that best fits the tone and flow of your sentence.

When is it best to use "to bring about" over other similar phrases?

Use "to bring about" when you want to emphasize the effort or process involved in making something happen. It suggests a deliberate action aimed at achieving a particular outcome.