Causative have and get

Use have or get something done when another person performs a service or action for the subject.

When do we use it?

Form the causative with have or get plus object plus past participle.

Form

Use have/get + object + past participle: have your hair cut.

• I had my phone repaired.
• We are getting the kitchen painted.

Key contrast

At B2, choose the form from the complete context: sequence, viewpoint, degree of certainty and clause structure all matter.

Common mistakes

• I repaired my phone by a technician. → I had my phone repaired.
• She got cut her hair. → She got her hair cut.

Remember

Use have or get something done when another person performs a service or action for the subject.

Quick check

• Identify the time relationship or intended meaning.
• Check the auxiliary, participle and clause pattern.
• Eliminate answers that fit the words but not the context.