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Definition cause in British English

cause noun

noun
/kɔːz/

▪ advance, champion, espouse, further, promote, support

1

an event, thing, or person that makes something happen

Example

The major cause of these accidents is drivers going too fast.

Example

an essay on the causes of the First World War

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2

a reason for behaving in a particular way or for feeling a particular emotion

Example

His departure was cause for celebration in the village.

Example

The doctor's report on the biopsy states that there is no cause for concern.

Example

He wouldn't have done it without good cause (=a good reason).

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3

an aim, idea, or organization that you support or work for, for example in politics

Example

Campaigners hope that people will be sympathetic to their cause.

Example

He has championed (=strongly supported) the cause of renewable energy since the mid-1970s.

3.1

an organization, plan, or activity that you are willing to support because it provides help or benefit to people who need it

Example

Please give as much as you can: it's for a very worthy cause.

Example

It may be hard work but it's all in a good cause.

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4

a case in a law court

Synonyms and related words
Definition cause in British English