we have caused

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we have caused" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a specific action or event has been the result of the subject's actions in the past and continues to have relevance in the present. Example: "We have caused significant changes in the community through our outreach programs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I would like to apologise for the trouble we have caused local people," Takahashi says, unprompted.

The Guardian

NatWest told us: "We unreservedly apologise for the distress and inconvenience we have caused Mr Gardner.

The Guardian - Money

We apologise to trans people for the harm that we have caused.

The Guardian

"I apologize for the concern and inconvenience we have caused our customers," he said.

The New York Times

thank you to everyone please forgive us if we have caused you any inconvenience".

The New York Times

The Swedish people should be punished for all the suffering we have caused Muslims, especially in Afghanistan.

The Guardian - Opinion

An Aviva spokesman told Money: "Aviva is sorry for any inconvenience that we have caused Sir Jeremy.

The Guardian - Money

We have also made him a goodwill gesture for the frustration we have caused," a statement said.

The Guardian - Money

"We have caused trouble to many people, and the value of our company has declined," he said.

The New York Times

"I don't see any other option but to take good care of these poor people … We are paying the bills we have caused ourselves".

The Guardian

'What really irritates me is the allegation that we have caused massive problems for the troops on the ground in Basra.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we have caused", ensure the connection between the action and the result is clear and direct. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "we have caused" when the link between your action and the result is weak or indirect. Overstating causation can weaken your argument and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have caused" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating that the subject (we) has directly resulted in a specific outcome or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The examples demonstrate its use in expressing responsibility for both positive and negative consequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we have caused" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that the subject's actions have directly led to a specific result. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. While it is appropriate for both formal and informal communication, being mindful of the strength of the causal connection is essential. Consider using alternatives like "we brought about" or "we are responsible for" to fine-tune your message. By understanding its nuances and potential pitfalls, you can confidently use "we have caused" to express causation in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we brought about

This alternative uses a different verb to express the act of causing something, focusing on the result.

we were the reason for

This phrase directly indicates responsibility for something happening, emphasizing the role of the subject.

we gave rise to

This alternative suggests a gradual development or emergence as a result of our actions.

we are responsible for

This phrase explicitly states accountability for a particular outcome or situation.

we led to

This alternative focuses on the sequence of events, where our actions initiated a chain of consequences.

we triggered

This option indicates a specific action that initiated a sudden or forceful reaction or event.

we were instrumental in

This alternative suggests a crucial role in enabling something to happen, often implying a positive or significant impact.

we contributed to

This phrase implies that our actions were a factor among others that led to a specific result.

we had a hand in

This is an idiomatic expression indicating involvement or influence in a particular event or outcome.

we were the source of

This alternative focuses on the origin or starting point of an event or situation resulting from our actions.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we have caused" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "we brought about", "we gave rise to", or "we are responsible for depending on the context.

Is "we have caused" appropriate for informal writing?

Yes, "we have caused" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in informal contexts, you might also use alternatives like "we led to" or "we had a hand in".

What is the difference between "we have caused" and "we contributed to"?

"We have caused" implies a direct and significant role in bringing about a result. "We contributed to" suggests that our actions were one factor among many that influenced the outcome.

When should I use "we are responsible for" instead of "we have caused"?

Use "we are responsible for" when you want to emphasize accountability or ownership of the consequences. "We have caused" is a more general statement of causation.