ramification

American  

[ram-uh-fi-key-shuhn] / ˌræm ə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of ramifying.

2. a branch.

   ramifications of a nerve.

3. a related or derived subject, problem, etc.; outgrowth; consequence; implication.

   The new tax law proved to have many ramifications unforeseen by the lawmakers.

4. Botany.

   1. a structure formed of branches.

   2. a configuration of branching parts.

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ramification British  

/ ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of ramifying or branching out

2. an offshoot or subdivision

3. (often plural) a subsidiary consequence, esp one that complicates

4. a structure of branching parts

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Etymology

Origin of ramification

1670–80; < Middle French < Medieval Latin rāmificāt ( us ) (past participle of rāmificāre to ramify ) + Middle French -ion -ion

Explanation

A ramification is an accidental consequence that complicates things. Remember that time you borrowed your father's car without asking? The ramification was that Dad missed an important meeting, his company went under, and he had to sell the car. Oops! The ramifications are the broader effects that fan out into the world from one situation, or decision, that kicks it all off. Ramification also refers to something branching out, like limbs on a tree — which is what bad decisions tend to do. Ramification is like consequence, but usually unintended and bad. The word is often used in political discussions about laws or government decisions because they might be made locally but could affect people worldwide.

Example Sentences

Then you must bring him some evening which is not a Parent Society night, or a Branch night, or a Ramification night. 

From Bleak House by Dickens, Charles

Related Words

• complication
• consequence
• upshot