Cause and effect language
Describe causes and effects precisely: lead to, result in, stem from, be caused by, give rise to, contribute to, as a consequence.
In this lesson you will
- Use verbs for cause and effect
- Use nouns and linkers for results
- Hedge claims about causes
Learn
Cause → effect verbs: lead to, result in, cause, bring about, give rise to, trigger, contribute to: Stress can lead to* poor sleep.*
Effect ← cause verbs: result from, stem from, be caused by, be due to, arise from: Many accidents stem from* tiredness.* (Careful: result in vs result from.)
Linkers and nouns: As a result, Consequently, Therefore, As a consequence of…, owing to…, the main cause of…, a key factor in…, the effect on…
Hedging: may contribute to, is likely to result in, is partly due to, appears to be linked to — safer than claiming certain causes.
Examples
- Rising temperatures have led to more frequent wildfires.
- The delay resulted from a technical fault.
- Poor diet is a key factor in heart disease.
- Social media may contribute to feelings of loneliness.
Vocabulary
stem from
be caused by
give rise to
cause
trigger
start (a reaction)
factor
something that influences a result
hedge
make a claim less certain
Practice
Lack of sleep can ___ poor concentration.
Speaking
Explain the causes and effects of a problem in your country (e.g. traffic, unemployment, housing) using at least six cause/effect expressions.
Writing
Write a paragraph (120–150 words) on the causes and effects of obesity or another public issue, with at least two hedged claims.
Lesson quiz
The strike ___ the cancellation of 200 flights.
Review
Key points
- lead to, result in, cause, give rise to, trigger.
- result from, stem from, be due to, arise from.
- As a result, consequently; a factor in.
- Hedge: may, likely, partly.
What you learned
- ✓ I can describe causes and effects.
- ✓ I don’t confuse result in/from.
- ✓ I can hedge claims.
Grammar reference: Conjunctions and linking words