die Ursache
Translation
cause, reason, origin
Examples
Was ist die Ursache des Problems?
What is the cause of the problem?
Die Ursache für den Unfall ist unklar.
The cause of the accident is unclear.
Grammar Patterns
the cause of ((sth.)) die Ursache von+3 That is the cause of the whole problem.
the cause for ((sth.)) die Ursache für+4 The cause for the fire is still unknown.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Grund, Anlass; Antonyms: Wirkung, Folge
Etymology
The prefix 'Ur-' means 'primal' or 'original'. 'Sache' means 'thing' or 'affair'. So, 'Ursache' is the 'primal thing'.
Memory Tips
Connect 'Ur-' to the idea of 'Ur-text' (original text). It's the 'original affair' that led to the result.