Causative Constructions
Causative constructions express the idea of causing someone else to do something. In Spanish, this is commonly done using the verbshaceranddejar, as well as the structures withcausar,provocar, andmandar.
UsingHacer
Haceris the most common causative verb and means “to make” or “to have” someone do something.
Format
- Hacer+ + [infinitive]
Examples
UsingDejar
Dejarmeans “to let” or “to allow” someone to do something.
Format
- Dejar+ + [infinitive]
Examples
Other Causative Verbs
CausarandProvocar
These verbs mean “to cause” and are used more formally or for causing events rather than actions by people.
- Causar/Provocar+
Mandar
Mandarmeans “to order” and is used when causing someone to do something by giving an order.
- Mandar+ + [infinitivo]
Summary
Causative constructions in Spanish allow you to express making, letting, or causing someone to do something:
- Usehacerto express “making” someone do something.
- Usedejarto express “letting” someone do something.
- Usemandarto express ordering someone to do something.
- Usecausarandprovocarfor causing events or situations.
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Last updated: Thu Jul 17, 2025