The Significance of Causative Verbs in the Duolingo English Test

Last updated on 28 Feb 2025

Causative verbs are an essential part of English grammar, indicating that one person or thing is responsible for another person’s action. These verbs provide nuance, showing different degrees of influence—from giving permission to forcing an action.

If you're preparing for the Duolingo English Test (DET), understanding causative verbs will help improve your fluency and sentence complexity, especially in the speaking and writing sections. Let's explore the origins and differences between "let," "have," "get," and "make" to see how they subtly change meaning based on their use.

Understanding the Slight Differences in Causative Verbs

Each causative verb traces back to a different origin in English, which influences its meaning and how it's used. While all causative verbs cause an action, the level of control, permission, or obligation varies.

1️⃣ "Let" – Allowing Someone to Do Something

🧐 Etymology:
The verb "let" comes from Old English lǣtan, meaning "to allow, leave, or permit." Unlike other causative verbs, "let" expresses permission rather than control.

✔ Meaning:
"Let" is used when one person gives another the freedom to act. There is no force or persuasion—the person already wants to do it, and the subject allows it to happen.

✔ Structure:
Subject + let + person + base verb

✔ Examples:

The professor let his students submit assignments online. (Permission given)
She lets her children explore different cultural activities. (Freedom granted)

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Key Difference: Unlike "make," "let" does not force an action—it only grants approval.

2️⃣ "Have" – Assigning Responsibility

🧐 Etymology:
The verb "have" comes from Old English habban, meaning "to hold, possess, or control." Over time, it evolved to indicate responsibility rather than just ownership.

✔ Meaning:
"Have" is used when a person assigns or requires someone else to do something. There is no persuasion or force—instead, the subject is ensuring the task is completed.

✔ Structure:
Subject + have + person + base verb

✔ Examples:

The manager had her team conduct a market analysis. (Responsibility assigned)
He had his assistant compile relevant research data. (Task delegated)

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Key Difference: "Have" requires action but does not involve persuasion ("get") or force ("make").

Best Strategies & Tips for DET Speaking Questions

3️⃣ "Get" – Convincing or Persuading

🧐 Etymology:
The verb "get" comes from Old Norse geta, meaning "to obtain, reach, or procure." This history influences its modern meaning—"get" involves effort or persuasion.

✔ Meaning:
"Get" is used when one person convinces, persuades, or tricks another into doing something. The subject is not forcing an action but is actively influencing the decision.

✔ Structure:
Subject + get + person + to verb

✔ Examples:

The company gets employees to complete regular training sessions. (Persuasion involved)
She gets her colleagues to participate in charity events. (Encouragement used)

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Key Difference: "Get" suggests that the person wasn’t planning to do it, but was convinced or influenced.

4️⃣ "Make" – Forcing Someone to Act

🧐 Etymology:
The verb "make" comes from Old English macian, meaning "to build, create, or compel." It implies strong control over another person's action.

✔ Meaning:
"Make" is used when someone is forced, required, or compelled to do something. The subject has full control, and the second person has no choice.

✔ Structure:
Subject + make + person + base verb

✔ Examples:

The government makes citizens follow strict regulations. (Mandatory action)
The university makes students complete community service projects. (Compulsory participation)

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Key Difference: Unlike "let" (permission) or "get" (persuasion), "make" implies obligation or force.

Why Causative Verbs Matter for the Duolingo English Test 🏆

In the Duolingo English Test, you are assessed on grammatical accuracy and sentence complexity. Using causative verbs correctly can help you:

✅ Improve Sentence Structure: Adds variety and fluency to responses.
✅ Demonstrate Higher Proficiency: Shows strong command over advanced grammar.
✅ Increase Speaking & Writing Scores: Adds depth and clarity to answers.

🚀 Pro Tip: DET examiners reward structured, well-formed sentences. Using causative verbs naturally makes your responses more precise and expressive.

Final Thoughts 🎯

Causative verbs shape how we communicate responsibility, persuasion, and control. To boost your DET score:

✅ Practice structuring sentences with "let," "have," "get," and "make."
✅ Use causative verbs effectively in speaking and writing responses.
✅ Analyze DET sample questions and rewrite answers using causative verbs.

💡 Want to practice more? Head over to DETStudy.com for AI-powered exercises and expert feedback! 🚀