consequence

[kon-si-kwens, -kwuhns]

noun

1. the effect, result, or outcome of something occurring earlier.

   The accident was the consequence of reckless driving.

   Synonyms: sequel, upshot, issue, outcome
   Antonyms: cause

2. an act or instance of following something as an effect, result, or outcome.

3. the conclusion reached by a line of reasoning; inference.

4. importance or significance.

   a matter of no consequence.

   Synonyms: weight, moment

5. importance in rank or position; distinction.

   a man of great consequence in art.

consequence

/ ˈkɒnsɪkwəns /

noun

1. a result or effect of some previous occurrence

2. an unpleasant result (esp in the phrase take the consequences )

3. significance or importance

   it's of no consequence

   a man of consequence

4. logic

   1. a conclusion reached by reasoning

   2. the conclusion of an argument

   3. the relations between the conclusion and the premises of a valid argument

5. the relation between an effect and its cause

6. as a result

Other Word Forms

• nonconsequence noun
• superconsequence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of consequence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English (from Anglo-French ), from Latin consequentia. See consequent, -ence

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. in consequence of, as a result of; on account of.

   A trial was held in consequence of the investigation.

2. in consequence, consequently; as a result; hence.

   He withdrew from the world, and in consequence was forgotten.

see in consequence; of consequence.

Synonym Study

See effect. See importance.

Example Sentences

As for your sister, actions and words have consequences.

Read more on MarketWatch

"We obviously want to see our workers fairly paid, but of course there will be consequences to that for businesses," he said.

Read more on BBC

Since July 2024, Brussels has come under pressure to act against X to enforce the bloc's digital rules -- regardless of the potential consequences for US ties.

Read more on Barron's

Even if Roblox escapes the worst of the legal and moral consequences, continued spending growth for safety and moderation will impact its financials.

Read more on Barron's

Now, with the doors closed, policy experts and residents of Willows said they are terrified by the potential consequences.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aftereffect 
• aftermath 
• effect 
• fallout 
• issue 
• reaction 
• repercussion