What are causatives? Causal verbs are used to cause things to happen. They're used in causative constructions. Although there are various specific verbs in this category, we commonly use four ordinary verbs for this: ("have," "let," "get," and "make"). Let's make some sense of them.

Now that you have an idea about what causal verbs and causal constructions are, let's give them some context. We're still using the verbs "have," "let," "get," and "make," and the theme is housepainting.

Let's look "under the hood," and see how to build causative constructions using "have," "let," "get," and "make."

Sigrid introduces passive causative constructions, which combine causal verbs and the passive voice. We use them all the time in everyday conversation when we focus on the object rather than the subject.

This segment lays out the building blocks of a passive causative construction. We also compare and contrast causative constructions with other similar constructions. Sigrid uses the expression "to mix and match," which means putting different things together in different ways.

It's time to mix and match the formulas we've talked about. Sigrid mixes and matches them to talk about stuff she can't or doesn't want to do herself. She invites you to do the same.