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Showing results for cause. Search instead for cause/3.
Definitions

cause

[kawz] / kɔz /
NOUN
agent, originator
Synonyms
STRONGEST
element explanation matter motivation motive origin principle purpose root source
STRONG
account agency aim antecedent author basis beginning causation consideration creator determinant doer end foundation genesis ground grounds incitement inducement instigation leaven mainspring maker object occasion producer spring stimulation
WEAK
prime mover
Antonyms
STRONGEST
discouragement effect result
STRONG
conclusion finish neglect thoughtlessness
WEAK
consequence development fruit issue outcome outgrowth product
NOUN
belief; undertaking for belief
Synonyms
STRONGEST
faith goal ideal movement objective plan purpose
STRONG
attempt conviction creed enterprise intention object principles
Antonyms
WEAK
consequence development effect end fruit issue outcome outgrowth product result
VERB
bring into being; bring about
Synonyms
STRONGEST
begin create generate induce lead to make precipitate produce provoke
STRONG
brainstorm breed compel effect elicit engender evoke hatch incite introduce kickoff kindle let motivate muster occasion open originate revert secure
WEAK
be at the bottom of break in break the ice bring to pass come out with cook up dream up fire up get things rolling give rise to make up result in sow the seeds start the ball rolling think up work up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
destroy discourage end halt prevent ruin stop
STRONG
block close cover delay deter finish hide hinder impede keep obstruct repress

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

These sand-filled hollows are designed to cause golfers trouble.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Although Nevada regulators investigated and fined the health practitioners involved in administering the peptides, investigators weren’t able to determine the exact cause of the reaction.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

"We are aware of the concern that this incident will cause the local community. We have already made three arrests and our investigation continues."

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Simply put, higher prices at the pump could cause a consumer spending or hiring slowdown, pressuring the economy.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

By the emergency team’s calculations, they had at least a week before enough water would be lost to cause trouble, so they had focused on more pressing problems.

From "Meltdown" by Deirdre Langeland

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.