result
/ɹɪˈzʌlt/
This word focuses on the logical link between a cause and its effect. It is neutral in tone, unlike "consequence," which often carries a negative weight, or "outcome," which can feel more open-ended. When used as a noun, it refers to the concrete end product of a process—whether that is a numerical score, a scientific finding, or a life event. It suggests a definitive conclusion. As a verb, it describes the direction of causality. "Result from" looks backward toward the cause, while "result in" looks forward toward the effect.
Countable when referring to a specific score on a test or the final tally of an election ('The exam results were posted'). Uncountable when discussing the general consequence or outcome of an action ('Success is often the result of hard work').
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Meanings
A thing that is caused or produced by something else; a consequence.
"The result of the experiment was unexpected."
The score or outcome of a sports contest, election, or examination.
"We are still waiting for the final election results."
To occur as a consequence of something; to happen as a result.
"The accident resulted from a failure in the braking system."
To end or arrive at a particular outcome.
"The negotiations resulted in a new trade agreement."
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word resultare, which is a combination of re- meaning back and saltare meaning to jump or leap. The term originally conveyed the sense of leaping back or rebounding, which evolved in Middle French and later English to describe the eventual outcome or consequence of a specific action or process.