causalmechanism
nounUK /ˈkɔːzəl ˈmekənɪzəm/
US /ˈkɔːzəl ˈmekənɪzəm/
The way one thing makes another thing happen.
Scientists studied the causal mechanism by which the virus spreads from person to person.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The steps that link an action to its result.
The report explained the causal mechanism behind the bridge's collapse.
3. In biology, the physical process by which a factor produces an effect.
Researchers identified the causal mechanism linking the gene to the disease.
4. A system of connected causes that explains why something happens.
Understanding the causal mechanism helps doctors choose the right treatment.