ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bring sth about

phr. v..
C1 Advanced Oxford

phr. v.. to make something happen, especially a big change.

phr. v.. to cause something to happen; to be the catalyst for a significant change or event. Transitive and often used in formal or academic contexts.


SIMPLE

The new law will bring about many changes.

CONTEXTUAL

The invention of the internet brought about a revolution in how we share information.

COMPLEX

Historians argue whether the economic crisis alone was enough to bring about the collapse of the regime or if social unrest played a larger role.

Particles
about
Separability
optional
Pattern
bring + object + about
Usage

usually followed by an abstract noun like 'change', 'reform', or 'destruction'.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'cause'; while 'cause' often links to negative results, 'bring about' is more neutral and frequently used for intentional, large-scale societal or political shifts.

Pitfall

The meeting brought about to a decision.The meeting brought about a decision.this phrasal verb is transitive and takes a direct object; do not add the preposition 'to' after 'about'.

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