die Ursache
cause
The reason, trigger, or occasion for a particular event, action, or state.
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei ermittelt noch die genaue Ursache des Unfalls.
The police are still investigating the exact cause of the accident.
die Ursache
cause
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Meanings
Usage tips
Sentence structure and usage
To state the reason for something, you use 'die Ursache' (the cause) either with the genitive or with the preposition 'für' (for) and the accusative. Both forms are correct.
EXAMPLE
Die Ursache des Streits war ein Missverständnis.
The cause of the argument was a misunderstanding.
Word family
'Die Ursache' (the cause) is closely related to the verb 'verursachen' (to cause). The cause is the reason that produces an effect.
EXAMPLE
Ein Kurzschluss hat den Brand verursacht.
A short circuit caused the fire.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with 'Ursache' (cause) are 'ermitteln' (to investigate/determine), 'finden' (to find), 'klären' (to clarify), or 'bekämpfen' (to combat). The word is often used in compound nouns such as 'Unfallursache' (cause of an accident) or 'Todesursache' (cause of death).
EXAMPLE
Die Experten versuchen, die genaue Unfallursache zu finden.
The experts are trying to find the exact cause of the accident.
Compare with
Ursache vs Grund
reason / ground
Der Grund and die Ursache can both explain why something happens. Die Ursache more precisely refers to the causal origin of an event or state; der Grund can also be the motivation or justification for a decision. Ursache is more precise in an objective cause-and-effect relationship.
Ursache
Die Ursache für den Ausfall der Heizung war ein defektes Bauteil.
The cause of the heating failure was a defective component.
Grund
Der Grund für ihre Entscheidung, die Heizung auszuschalten, waren die hohen Kosten.
The reason she decided to turn off the heating was the high cost.
In real life
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