consequence
/ˈkɒnsɪkwɛns/
The word carries a heavy weight of causality and inevitability. While a "result" is neutral, a "consequence" often feels like a debt being paid or a logical conclusion that cannot be avoided once an action is taken. In its most common usage, it leans negative, evoking the feeling of punishment, liability, or an unfortunate fallout. It suggests a direct line from a mistake to a penalty. When used to describe importance (e.g., "of little consequence"), the tone shifts to one of status or impact. Here, it describes whether something has enough weight to shift the balance of a situation, often appearing in formal or literary contexts.
Countable when referring to the specific outcomes or penalties following an action ('He faced severe consequences for his lies'). Uncountable when describing a state of importance or significance ('The mistake was of little consequence').
💬Casual Conversation
Mark, the Q3 numbers are still missing. There will be a real consequence if we don't hit send by 3.
Dude, chill. What's the actual consequence? Just a few extra clicks.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
direct consequence
A result that follows immediately from an action or event.
The accident was a direct consequence of his reckless driving.
natural consequence
A result that is a logical or expected outcome of an action.
Forgetting to study had the natural consequence of failing the exam.
unforeseen consequence
A result that was not anticipated or expected.
The new policy had several unforeseen consequences.
immediate consequence
A result that happens right after an action or event.
The immediate consequence of the strike was a shortage of goods.
serious consequence
A result that is important or has a significant impact.
His actions had serious consequences for his career.
Idioms & Sayings
face the consequences
To accept the negative results of one's actions.
If you break the rules, you will have to face the consequences.
the consequence of
The result or effect of something.
We must consider the consequence of our decisions.
in consequence of
As a result of; because of.
The meeting was postponed in consequence of the bad weather.
Etymology
The word 'consequence' entered English in the late 14th century. It comes from the Anglo-French 'consequence' and directly from the Latin word 'consequentia', meaning 'a following after, a sequence'. This Latin term is derived from 'consequi', which means 'to follow closely, overtake, attain'. The root is 'com-' (together) + 'sequi' (to follow). Initially, it referred to a logical inference or conclusion, and later evolved to mean the result or outcome of an action or condition.