Phrasal verb
bring about
Definition
phrasal verb. to make something happen, especially a change or a specific result.
phrasal verb. to cause something to occur; typically used with abstract nouns as objects to describe the initiation of change or social shifts.
Examples
“The new law will bring about many changes.”
“The activists hoped their protests would bring about a shift in government policy regarding climate change.”
“Technological innovations in the late twentieth century brought about a fundamental transformation in how global markets communicate and trade.”
Examples
simple
“The new law will bring about many changes.”
contextual
“The activists hoped their protests would bring about a shift in government policy regarding climate change.”
complex
“Technological innovations in the late twentieth century brought about a fundamental transformation in how global markets communicate and trade.”
Usage
usually followed by abstract nouns like 'change', 'reform', or 'improvement'.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'cause' (which is often used for negative events like accidents); 'bring about' is more neutral or positive and often implies a process.
Pitfall
The storm brought about the house to fall.
The storm brought about the fall of the house.
this phrase takes a noun phrase as an object, not a clause with an infinitive verb.
Phrasal verb
Particles
about
Separability
optional
Pattern
bring + (object) + about
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/bring-about