# bring about

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bring-about
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The storm brought about the house to fall." but "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.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.