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causation

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˌkɔˈzeɪʃən// UK //kɔːsˈeɪʃən// cau·sa·tion

n. the process where one thing makes another thing happen. It is the direct link between a cause and its result.

n. the action of causing something; the relationship between cause and effect. Often contrasted with correlation to distinguish between a direct link and a mere coincidence.


SIMPLE

Scientists are trying to prove causation between the two events.

CONTEXTUAL

The legal team had to establish a clear line of causation between the company's negligence and the client's injury.

COMPLEX

While the data shows a strong correlation between ice cream sales and sunburns, there is no direct causation; both are simply influenced by the rising summer temperatures.

Synonyms
Origin

From cause + -ation.

Usage

Uncountable in its abstract sense; frequently appears in the phrase 'correlation does not imply causation'.

Pitfall

the causation of the problemthe cause of the problemLearners often use 'causation' (the abstract principle) when they mean 'cause' (the specific event or thing).

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