使 is a formal causative meaning "to cause" or "to make." It is more literary than 让/叫 and common in news, academic writing, and formal speech.
Formal causation - X causes Y to happen
Emotional causation - Something makes someone feel a certain way
Abstract subjects - Often used with non-human subjects
This news made everyone very happy.
使 sounds stiff in casual conversation - use 让 instead for everyday speech.
使 is formal/written
- ✅ Written: 这使我想起了童年
- Casual: 这让我想起了童年
Often used with abstract subjects
- News, events, situations (not usually people giving orders)
Related formal causatives: 令 (emotional), 致使 (lead to)
This news made everyone very happy.
His words made me very disappointed.
The development of technology has made life more convenient.
Find real examples
Discover this pattern in manga, dramas & more
Save for spaced repetition
Add sentences to your study deck
Practice 使 + sb/sth + V/Adj and other grammar patterns with manga, dramas, and more.
Start learning free