caused

word · lemma: cause

/ˈkɑzd/
kawzd
/kˈɔːzd/
kawzd

Definition

Past tense and past participle of 'cause'. It means made something happen, especially something negative like a problem, delay, or damage.

Usage & Nuances

Usually followed by a noun phrase: 'caused a fire', 'caused problems'. Very common in formal, news, and report-style English. In everyday speech, people also use simpler alternatives like 'made', 'led to', or 'brought about' depending on context.

Example Sentences

The storm caused a lot of damage.

basic

The accident caused a long delay.

basic

What caused the noise last night?

basic

I didn't mean to upset anyone—I never thought my joke would cause this kind of reaction.

natural

The road work caused traffic all morning, so I got here late.

natural

Was it my email that caused all this confusion?

natural