ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bring about

phr. v..
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford

phr. v.. to make something happen, especially a change or a specific result.

phr. v.. to cause something to occur; typically used with abstract nouns as objects to describe the initiation of change or social shifts.


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.

Particles
about
Separability
optional
Pattern
bring + (object) + about
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.

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