Causar vs. ocasionar vs. provocar
The Spanish verbs causar, ocasionar, and provocar all translate as to cause in English. Although they bear similar meanings, they're used slightly differently depending on the context.
Causar
B1This is the general term for to cause. It is versatile and can be used with a wide range of objects or circumstances.
El alcohol puede causar daño al hígado.
(Alcohol can cause liver damage.)
Su negligencia causó un gran accidente.
(His negligence caused a big accident.)
Ocasionar
B2Though also translating to to cause, this verb often carries a connotation of an indirect, less immediate cause. It's typically used to refer to consequences resulting due to an action, behavior, or circumstance.
El mal tiempo ha ocasionado retrasos en los vuelos.
(The bad weather has caused delays in flights.)
La falta de comunicación puede ocasionar malentendidos.
(Lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings.)
Provocar
B1Provocar usually indicates an intentionality or deliberate action taken to generate a certain outcome or response. It also implies a stronger degree of causality than ocasionar.
Sus comentarios provocaron risas en la sala.
(His comments provoked laughter in the room.)
La nueva ley ha provocado protestas en toda la ciudad.
(The new law has provoked protests throughout the city.)
Summary
While causar, ocasionar, and provocar all mean to cause, each word carries slightly different nuances. Causar is the most general term; ocasionar generally refers to indirect, consequential causes; and provocar implies intentional or strong causal actions.