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

“The consequences have been dire, and wholly predictable.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

At the time, Webber was given a "minor administrative action interview" with no further consequences.

Read more on BBC

The consequences are proving catastrophic for the indigenous Black population.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The timber industry has joined environmentalists in raising the alarm about consequences if it doesn’t happen.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The letter's signatories - described as experts in accounting, finance, economic development and local government - said the decision had caused "damaging" consequences for residents.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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