events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something; they are trying to determine the cause of the crash'
a justification for something existing or happening; he had no cause to complain; they had good reason to rejoice
a series of actions advancing a principle or tending toward a particular end; he supported populist campaigns; they worked in the cause of world peace; the team was ready for a drive toward the pennant; the movement to end slavery; contributed to the war effort
any entity that produces an effect or is responsible for events or results
[ Syn: causal agent , causal agency ]
a comprehensive term for any proceeding in a court of law whereby an individual seeks a legal remedy; the family brought suit against the landlord
cause (n.)
give rise to; cause to happen or occur, not always intentionally; cause a commotion; make a stir; cause an accident
cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner; The ads induced me to buy a VCR; My children finally got me to buy a computer; My wife made me buy a new sofa