causal

adjective

caus·​al ˈkȯ-zəl How to pronounce causal (audio)
1
: expressing or indicating cause : causative
a causal clause introduced by since
2
: of, relating to, or constituting a cause
the causal agent of a disease
3
: involving causation or a cause : marked by cause and effect
a causal link
evidence suggests that there is a strong causal relationship between an individual's experiences with his parents and his later capacity to make affectional bondsG. A. Miller
4
: arising from a cause
a causal development
causally adverb

Examples of causal in a Sentence

No causal connection between the events was found. There is a causal link between poverty and crime.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The researchers point out that as in many meta-analyses, while the link between these foods and tinnitus risk has been found, it can not be assumed that there is a causal relationship. Michael Franco, New Atlas, 19 Mar. 2025 Again This study is among the first to establish a causal relationship between lung cancer and diet, further reinforcing the importance of maintaining a nutrient-rich, balanced diet, staying physically active, and limiting alcohol intake for long-term health. Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 14 Mar. 2025 The illusion of a causal connection People tend to form illusory correlations between objects, people, occurrences or behaviors, particularly when those things are infrequently encountered. Julia Standefer, The Conversation, 14 Mar. 2025 His Airness also has a fun causal venue here, MJ3 Sports Bar & Grill. Larry Olmsted, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for causal

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Late Latin causālis, from Latin causa cause entry 1 + -ālis -al entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1530, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of causal was circa 1530

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Causal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/causal. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

causal

adjective
caus·​al ˈkȯ-zəl How to pronounce causal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a cause

Legal Definition

causal

adjective
caus·​al ˈkȯ-zəl How to pronounce causal (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or constituting a cause
causal negligence
2
: involving causation or a cause
no causal relationship between driving without insurance and the accidentNational Law Journal
a causal link exists between the deceptive act and the injuryNational Law Journal
3
: arising from a cause

More from Merriam-Webster on causal

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