Download Causative Verbs in English Grammar and more Exercises English in PDF only on Docsity! Causative verbs: Let, Make, Have, Get, Help The verbs let, make, have, get and help are called ‘causative’ verbs because they cause something to happen. As such, these verbs are used in a causative sentence structure. Causative verb LET Meaning: allow someone to do something. Structure: Let + person/thing + verb Example sentences: We couldn’t let our daughter adopt a kitten because she’s allergic to cats. My brother let me use his computer when mine broke down. Sarah never lets anyone tell her what to do. Causative verb MAKE Meaning: force or require someone to do something. Structure: Make + person + verb Example sentences: They make students exercise regularly. John’s mum made him eat his dinner. His parents tried to make him be a better person. Causative verb HAVE Meaning: give someone the responsibility to do something. Structure: Have + person + verb Example sentences: We had a painter paint our apartment. Sheila had a hairdresser do her hair. Paul had a mechanic fix his car. Causative verb GET: Meaning: convince/persuade someone to do something. Structure: Get + person + to + verb Example sentences: Jane got her son to help her with the dishes. She got her boyfriend to buy her an expensive ring. I got my neighbour to help me carry my suitcase. Causative verb HELP Meaning: give aid to someone in doing something. Structure: Help + person + (to) verb Note: after “help” you can use the infinitive with to (to do) or bare infinitive (do). Example sentences: Helen helped me (to) do my homework. A cup of coffee in the morning helps me (to) wake up. My colleague helped me (to) write my CV.