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.
事故の原因はまだわかっていません。
The cause of the accident is still unknown.
ストレスが病気の原因になることがあります。
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.
彼が遅刻した理由は電車の遅れです。
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.
成功の要因はいくつかあります。
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.
彼は大義のために戦った。
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.
彼は平和主義を掲げている。
He advocates the cause of pacifism.
Expressing that someone or something causes an event or state.
The most common verb for 'to cause' (an event, problem, etc.). Transitive.
その政策が混乱を引き起こした。
The policy caused confusion.
地震が津波を引き起こすことがあります。
Earthquakes can cause tsunamis.
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'.
喫煙は肺がんの原因となる。
Smoking causes lung cancer.
Causative form of verbs. Expresses making someone do something or causing a state. Very common.
彼の冗談がみんなを笑わせた。
His joke caused everyone to laugh.
その知らせは彼女を悲しませた。
The news caused her to feel sad.
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.
新しい技術が大きな変化をもたらした。
The new technology caused major changes.
Carelessness causes accidents.