Translation guide
The English word 'cause' can be a noun (reason, origin) or a verb (to make something happen). This guide covers both uses, focusing on natural Japanese expressions.
Expressing the reason or origin of an event, situation, or feeling.
The most common and neutral word for 'cause' as a noun. Used for the direct cause of an event, problem, or phenomenon.
The cause of the accident is still unknown.
Stress can be a cause of illness.
Often translated as 'reason', but can overlap with 'cause' when explaining why something happened. More subjective than 原因.
The reason (cause) he was late is the train delay.
A contributing factor or element that leads to a result. Often used in formal or analytical contexts.
There are several factors that cause success.
Referring to a social or political cause that people advocate for.
A great cause or noble principle, often used in formal or idealistic contexts.
He fought for a cause.
A movement or campaign for a social or political cause.
An '-ism' or doctrine; can be used for a cause one believes in, but often sounds ideological.
Expressing that someone or something causes an event or state.
The most common verb for 'to cause' (an event, problem, etc.). Transitive.
The policy caused confusion.
To bring about, often used for both positive and negative results. Slightly formal.
Literally 'to become the cause of'. A common phrase equivalent to 'to cause'.
Smoking causes lung cancer.
Causative form of verbs. Expresses making someone do something or causing a state. Very common.
His joke caused everyone to laugh.
To invite or bring about (usually negative consequences).
原因 (gen'in) is the direct cause of an event or phenomenon, often physical or objective. 理由 (riyū) is the reason or rationale behind an action or decision, often subjective. For 'cause of death', use 死因 (shiin), not 原因 or 理由.
In casual English, 'cause' is short for 'because'. This is not directly translatable. Use から or ので for 'because'.
環境保護運動に参加しています。
I'm involved in the environmental cause.
He advocates the cause of pacifism.
Earthquakes can cause tsunamis.
新しい技術が大きな変化をもたらした。
The new technology caused major changes.
その知らせは彼女を悲しませた。
The news caused her to feel sad.
Carelessness causes accidents.