Overview
The causative passive uses 'have' or 'get' + object + past participle to describe a service arranged for or caused to happen. Examples: I had my car repaired. She got her hair done. He had the package delivered. 'Have' is more formal; 'get' is more informal. It implies the subject arranged or caused the action rather than performing it.
Have/Get Something Done
- haveSubject + have + object + past participle.
- getSubject + get + object + past participle.
- exampleI had my car repaired yesterday.
- exampleShe got her hair done before the interview.
- meaningSubject arranged for someone else to do it.
Have vs Get
- have (formal)We had the office repainted last month.
- get (informal)I need to get my phone fixed.
- negativeI didn't have it checked.
- questionHave you had it serviced?
- futureShe will have it delivered tomorrow.
Common Errors
- ❌ I had my car repair → ✅ I had my car repaired.
- ❌ I got my hair to do → ✅ I got my hair done.
- ❌ Confusing with active 'have': I had a coffee (possession, NOT causative).
When to use
Services
She had her car serviced at the garage.
Personal Care
He gets his hair cut every month.
Home Repairs
We had the roof fixed before winter.
Professional Work
They had their photos taken professionally.