underlying causes of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underlying causes of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the fundamental reasons or factors that contribute to a particular issue or phenomenon. Example: "To effectively address the problem, we must first identify the underlying causes of the conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The underlying causes of our desperation are far more serious.

The Guardian - Opinion

What are the underlying causes of gun violence?

The New York Times

The underlying causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia remain unclear.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To seek the underlying causes of terrorism is not to seek justification, only understanding.

The New York Times

Policymaking should acknowledge the underlying causes of land-value-driven increases in house prices.

The Guardian - Opinion

Robust community interventions, tackling the underlying causes of crime, must be championed.

The Guardian - Opinion

But there is less confidence that the underlying causes of homelessness will go as quickly.

The Guardian

The proposal would not tackle the underlying causes of sexual violence, she said.

The Guardian

The underlying causes of the failure were more troublesome and potentially more sinister.

The Guardian

They will impose requirements or bans to deal with the underlying causes of the problem.

The Guardian

We must keep the coalition together as we address the underlying causes of terrorism.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "underlying causes of", ensure that you delve into the fundamental reasons behind a situation rather than focusing solely on the symptoms. Addressing these causes can lead to more effective and lasting solutions.

Common error

Avoid mistaking superficial symptoms for the "underlying causes of" a problem. For instance, simply treating a fever without investigating the infection that causes it will not resolve the actual issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlying causes of" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the fundamental reasons or factors contributing to a specific issue or phenomenon. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "underlying causes of" is a commonly used phrase to describe the fundamental reasons or factors that contribute to a particular issue. Ludwig AI validates its correct and frequent usage across diverse fields. When using this phrase, it's important to focus on the foundational reasons rather than the surface-level symptoms to achieve effective and lasting solutions. Alternative phrases like "root causes of" or "fundamental reasons for" can be used to add variety to your writing. Remember to differentiate "underlying causes of" from "direct consequences of" for accurate analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

root causes of

Focuses on the fundamental origin of a problem.

fundamental reasons for

Emphasizes the basic and essential rationale.

primary drivers of

Highlights the main forces behind a specific outcome.

key factors contributing to

Identifies the significant elements that play a role.

basic reasons for

Stresses the elementary explanations for something.

core contributors to

Focuses on the central elements that contribute.

deep-seated reasons for

Highlights reasons that are firmly established or difficult to change.

real motives behind

Focuses on the actual motivations or reasons, especially when they are not obvious.

hidden origins of

Emphasizes the obscure or concealed beginnings of something.

driving forces behind

Highlights the forces that propel or motivate something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "underlying causes of" is used to describe the fundamental reasons or factors that contribute to a particular issue. For example: "The study aimed to identify the "underlying causes of" poverty in the region."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "underlying causes of"?

You can use alternatives like "root causes of", "fundamental reasons for", or "primary drivers of", depending on the context.

How do "underlying causes of" differ from "direct consequences of"?

"Underlying causes of" refers to the foundational reasons or factors leading to an issue, while "direct consequences of" describes the immediate results or effects of an event or action. Understanding both is crucial for comprehensive analysis.

Is it better to address the symptoms or the "underlying causes of" a problem?

While addressing symptoms can provide immediate relief, tackling the "underlying causes of" a problem typically leads to more sustainable and effective solutions. Ignoring the root issues may result in the problem recurring or worsening.