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Causative verbs

Definition

Causative verbs indicate that someone or something causes or enables something to happen.

Construction

These verbs can be used in any tense, or with modal verbs, according to the usual rules. It is important to learn whether they are followed by the bare infinitive or the infinitive with ‘to’.

Note that some passive forms are also possible.For example:
  • At school, we were made to eat all our vegetables.
  • All visitors are required to show a valid form of ID.

Uses

There are various uses depending on the meaning of the verb. It is also important to note that the verbs in the table above might also have other meanings, and be used with other structures.

‘To have someone do something’ or ‘to get someone to do something’?

These are very similar but ‘get’ is more informal. Also, there can be a subtle difference in the meaning. ‘Have’ often means that someone uses their authority in order to make something happen:

  • The manager had the technician fix the problem right away.

And ‘get’ can suggest an element of persuasion.

  • I got Kevin to represent me at the meeting.

To have/get something done

This structure is also a form of the causative. The focus is often on the action rather than the person who does it.

Construction

‘to have’/’to get’ object + past participle
to have/get the windows cleaned

‘Have’ and ‘get’ mean the same but ‘get’ is more informal. There are other subtle differences between them. This form has various uses – here are some examples:

Uses Examples
Solving a problemI need to have/get my brakes fixed.
Paying someone to do somethingWe had the new ingredient tested and certified. [‘had’ is more common in the past]
When something negative happens, not arranged by usI had my car stolen last week.