cause

1. 1

   The source of, or reason for, an event or action; that which produces or effects a result.countableoftenwith-of

   • They identified a burst pipe as the cause of the flooding.
2. 2

   Sufficient reason.especiallyuncountable

   • There is no cause for alarm.
   • The end of the war was a cause for celebration.
3. 3

   A goal, aim or principle, especially one which transcends purely selfish ends.countable

   • God befriend us, as our cause is just.
   • The part they take against me is from zeal to the cause.
4. 4

   Sake; interest; advantage.countableobsoleteuncountable

   • I did it not for his cause.
5. 5

   Any subject of discussion or debate; a matter; an affair.countableobsolete

   • What counsel give you in this weighty cause?
6. 6

   A suit or action in court; any legal process by which a party endeavors to obtain his claim, or what he regards as his right; case; ground of action.countable

syn. basis · cause · genesis · germ · origin · principle · reason · root · source

ant. consequence · effect · result · hindrance · impediment · preventer · prohibitor

1. 1

   To set off an event or action; to bring about; to produce.transitive

   • The lightning caused thunder.
2. 2

   To actively produce as a result, by means of force or authority.ditransitive

   • His dogged determination caused the fundraising to be successful.
3. 3

   To assign or show cause; to give a reason; to make excuse.obsolete

   • He, to shifte their curious request, / Gan causen why she could not come in place.

1. 1

   Alternative form of 'cause; becausealt-ofalternative

   • Why not? Cause I don't wanna.