Causative

Causative

Have + object + past participle (to have something done)
Have + object + bare infinitive (to have someone do something)

Functions and examples

1. We use causative have when arranging for someone to do something for us.

They repaired their car. (they did it themselves)
They had their car repaired. (they arranged for someone to repair it)
I cut my hair yesterday. (I cut it myself)
I had my hair cut yesterday. (I went to the hairdresser)


2. We also use causative have when someone does something to us.

Bill had his money stolen by a thief.

Important points

1. Get is possible instead of have, usually in informal spoken English.
I'm going to get my car fixed tomorrow.

2. We can also use to have someone do something to talk about giving instructions or orders (more common in American English).

I had my assistant type the report.
I'll have my lawyer look into it.