Causative Verbs in English: Let, Make, Have, Get

Last updated on August 6, 2024 by Grammargeek

This reference explores the concept of causative verbs, helping you enhance your English language skills. A causative verb describes an action that someone causes another person to do. Understanding causative verbs can make your sentences more precise and detailed.

You’ll learn about the four main causative verbs: have, get, make, and let. There will also be comparisons between “have something done” and “get something done.” By studying these sections, you’ll improve your ability to form grammatically correct sentences.

What Is A Causative Verb?

Causative Verbs
Causative Verbs – Created by 7ESL

A causative verb shows that someone or something indirectly causes an action. The most common causative verbs are Make, Get, Have, and Let.

Examples of causative verbs include:

  • Why did you let him swear at you like that?
  • He made his son clean his room.
  • I had Peter fix my car.
  • We couldn’t get her to sign the agreement.

Causative Verbs List

Have

Form: Subject + Have + Person + Base Form of Verb

This construction means “to authorize someone to do something”.

Examples:

  • The president had his secretary make copies of the report.
  • I’ll have Hudson show you to your room.

Get

Form: Subject + Get + Person + To + Verb

This construction usually means “to convince someone to do something” or “to trick someone into doing something.”

Examples:

  • The students got the teacher to dismiss class early.
  • We couldn’t get him to sign the agreement.

Make

Form: Subject + Make + Person + Base Form of Verb

This construction means “to force or require someone to take an action”.

Examples:

  • My parents always make me do my homework before I go out.
  • It seems unfair on him to make him pay for everything.

Let

Form: Subject + Let + Person + Base Form of Verb

This construction means “to allow someone to do something.”

Examples:

  • I don’t let my kids watch violent movies.
  • If you need any help, let me know.
  • Move up, John, and let the lady sit down.
Causative Verbs in English
Causative Verbs in English – Created by 7ESL

Have Something Done vs. Get Something Done

Have is slightly more formal than get in “have something done” and “get something done”.

Have something done

  • I had my hair cut last Saturday.
  • She had the car washed at the weekend.

Get something done

  • I really must get my eyes tested. I’m sure I need glasses.
  • She got her hair cut.
Latest posts by Grammargeek (see all)