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

Example Sentences

Operation Epic Fury won’t be the last conflict with massive geopolitical ramifications.

From The Wall Street Journal

The government's behaviour could cause "broad negative ramifications for the entire technology sector", Microsoft warned.

From BBC

"That can have quite severe ramifications on the marine ecosystem that the penguins and other coastal birds rely on."

From BBC

Natalie Whittaker, 27, doesn't regret going to university but feels she was not "properly informed" about the financial ramifications of taking out a Plan 2 loan.

From BBC

If Iran were to refuse to travel to the World Cup, it could have serious ramifications.

From BBC

Related Words

• complication
• consequence
• upshot