What does the phrasal verb “bring about” mean?

What are the definitions of “bring about”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Make something happen.

  The changes to the law were BROUGHT ABOUT by the government because so many people were ignoring the old one.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bring about”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bring about is to cause something to happen or to make something occur. It is often used to describe changes, events, or situations that are the result of a specific action or decision.

What are the different verb forms of “bring about”?

Root Verb	bring about
Third Person Singular Present	brings about
Present Participle	bringing about
Simple Past	brought about
Past Participle	brought about

Example

The new policy will bring about significant changes in the industry.

Example

The new law brings about a safer environment for everyone.

Example

The government is bringing about reforms to improve the economy.

Example

The invention of the internet brought about a revolution in communication.

Example

The changes were brought about by the new management team.

What kind of phrasal verb is “bring about”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“bring about” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

The new law brought about a safer environment.

Example

The government brought about reforms to improve the economy.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“bring about” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The new law brought about a safer environment.

Example

The government brought about reforms to improve the economy.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bring about”?

Bring about change

To cause a change or transformation in a situation, often for the better.

Example

The new CEO aims to bring about change in the company culture.

Bring about a solution

To cause a solution to a problem or issue to be found or implemented.

Example

The negotiations brought about a peaceful solution to the conflict.

Bring about an end

To cause something to come to an end or to stop.

Example

The ceasefire brought about an end to the fighting.

Good things to know

Does “bring about” have an informal or formal tone?

Bring about is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic writing, professional discussions, or news articles.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “bring about”?

Synonyms

• cause
• create
• produce
• generate
• induce
• effect
• trigger
• lead to
• result in
• give rise to

Antonyms for {keyword}

• prevent
• hinder
• obstruct
• impede
• block
• thwart
• inhibit
• stop
• avoid
• avert