Japanese word

原因

Pronunciation

Romajigen'in

Meaning

  • nouncause

Example

これが原因です。ko re ga gen in de su

This is the cause.

Illustration for 原因 (cause)

More examples

事故の原因を詳しく調べます。ji ko no gen in o kuwa shi ku shira be ma su

We will investigate the cause of the accident carefully.

Core concept

Describes the source or factor that brings about an event or situation.

Common phrases

  • 原因を調べるgen in o shira be ru

    investigate the cause

  • 原因が分かるgen in ga wa ka ru

    find out the cause

  • 原因を探すgen in o saga su

    look for the cause

Similar words

要因yōin: A factor that contributes to an event or situation.
理由riyū: An explanation for a choice, action, or decision.
きっかけkikkake: An event or circumstance that starts a change or action.

Definition in Japanese

ある事柄や出来事を引き起こすもと。a ru koto gara ya de ki goto o hi ki o ko su mo to

Word origin

Combines 原 (gen, "origin") and 因 (in, "cause"), expressing the factor from which an event arises.

Usage tips

  • In beginner conversations, 原因 (gen'in) often points to what makes a problem happen, while 理由 (riyū) more often explains a person's choice or action.

Other meanings

  • reasonnoun

Word lists with this word