"root cause" vs "root-cause"

Question

"root cause" vs "root-cause"

Both "root-cause" and "root cause" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Root-cause" is commonly used as a compound adjective to describe the cause of a problem, while "root cause" is used as a noun to refer to the fundamental cause of an issue.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

The term "root cause" is used as a noun to refer to the fundamental cause of a problem or issue.

Examples:

Identifying the root cause of the issue is crucial for implementing an effective solution.
The team focused on addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms.

Alternatives:

underlying cause
primary cause
fundamental cause
main cause
core cause

The term "root-cause" is used as a compound adjective to describe the primary cause of a problem or issue.

Examples:

We need to identify the root-cause of the problem before we can find a solution.
The team conducted a root-cause analysis to determine why the project failed.

Alternatives:

underlying cause
primary cause
fundamental cause
main cause
core cause

Answer 1

root cause

This is a correct construction commonly used in English as a noun.

Answer 2

root-cause

This is a correct construction commonly used in English as a compound adjective.

"root cause" vs "root-cause"

root cause

root-cause

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