There are multiple definitions - click on the translation that matches your context.

Anspruch

Substantiv

partial

cause of action

noun

Comparative law notes

Germany

The phrase "cause of action" is used in the US to denote a legally recognized claim that is filed in court for purposes of judicially enforcing the demand set forth in the pleadings (statement of claim). When the context suggests that a German Anspruch is just about to be enforced in a lawsuit and the translation reader is a US lawyer, then cause of action may more precisely reflect the nature of the claim.

Definitions of cause of action

English

the facts that give rise to (=lead to) a lawsuit or a legal claim

The judge ruled that the federal Noise Control Act did not provide the plaintiff with a cause of action to sue in a federal district court.