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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.

Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers in Western countries and remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths.

From Science Daily • Apr. 22, 2026

The fine powder released by certain grasses, trees and plants can cause chaos for those who are allergic, with itchy eyes, sneezing and headaches all common symptoms.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Peace talk optimism was keeping the euro between $1.1720 and $1.1770, ING said, adding that investors could buy dips toward $1.1670-$1.1700, unless diplomatic efforts break down which would potentially cause it to fall below $1.1600.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

“The preliminary cause of death was determined to be disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and snake envenomation from snake bites,” according to the Sheriff’s Office.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

Now, if he didn’t like boys who caught animals and could cause them to have bad luck, I was just in for it.

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls

Vocabulary lists containing cause

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Academic Vocabulary: Core Tier 2 Words, List 1

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TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!