Consequence

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈkÉ’nsɪˌkwÉ›ns/
• GenAm IPA: /ˈkÉ‘nsɪˌkwÉ›ns/

Origin

From Old French

Full definition of consequence

Noun

1. That which follows something on which it depends; that which is produced by a cause.
• Schuster Hepaticae V|7The lobule margins, furthermore, are arched away from the lobe, with the consequence that (when fully inflated) the abaxial leaf surface forms the interior lining of the lobule.
2. A result of actions, especially if such a result is unwanted or unpleasant.
   I'm warning you. If you don't get me the report on time, there will be consequences.
• 2013, Michael Sivak, Will AC Put a Chill on the Global Energy Supply?, Nevertheless, it is clear that the global energy demand for air-conditioning will grow substantially as nations become more affluent, with the consequences of climate change potentially accelerating the demand.
3. A proposition collected from the agreement of other previous propositions; any conclusion which results from reason or argument; inference.
4. Chain of causes and effects; consecution.
5. Importance with respect to what comes after.
6. The power to influence or produce an effect.
7. (especially when preceded by "of") Importance, value, or influence.
• 2011, September 2, Phil McNulty, Bulgaria 0-3 England, Rooney's United team-mate Chris Smalling was given his debut at right-back and was able to adjust to the international stage in relatively relaxed fashion as Bulgaria barely posed a threat of any consequence.

Usage notes

Adjectives often applied to "consequence":

social, legal, environmental, political, economic, personal, cultural, moral,

unintended, undesirable, likely, probable, necessary, logical, natural, important, significant, bad, disastrous, devastating, fatal, catastrophic, harmful.

Synonyms

• value
• moment
• rank
• distinction
• repercussion

Related terms

• consequential

Verb

1. (transitive) To threaten or punish (a child, etc.) with specific consequences for misbehaviour.
• 1998, Terry M. Levy, Michael Orlans, Attachment, trauma, and healingThe goal of consequencing is to teach the child a lesson that leads to positive choices and behaviors. The goal of punishment is to inflict pain and seek revenge. Angry parenting is punitive and ineffectual.
• 2001, Betty Bedard-Bidwell, Hand in Hand (page 117)These behaviours are not acceptable within a classroom setting and often result in the child being consequenced or removed from class.