cause

(noun) events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something. Examples: "They are trying to determine the cause of the crash."

(noun) a justification for something existing or happening. Synonyms: reason, grounds. Examples: "He had no cause to complain." "They had good reason to rejoice."

(noun) a series of actions advancing a principle or tending toward a particular end. Synonyms: campaign, crusade, drive, movement, effort. Examples: "He supported populist campaigns." "They worked in the cause of world peace." "The team was ready for a drive toward the pennant." "The movement to end slavery." "Contributed to the war effort."

(noun) any entity that produces an effect or is responsible for events or results. Synonyms: causal agent, causal agency.

(noun) a comprehensive term for any proceeding in a court of law whereby an individual seeks a legal remedy. Synonyms: lawsuit, suit, case, causa. Examples: "The family brought suit against the landlord."

(verb) give rise to; cause to happen or occur, not always intentionally. Synonyms: do, make. Examples: "Cause a commotion." "Make a stir." "Cause an accident."

(verb) cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner. Synonyms: induce, stimulate, have, get, make. Examples: "The ads induced me to buy a vcr." "My children finally got me to buy a computer." "My wife made me buy a new sofa."