consequence

UK: ˈkɒnsɪkwəns | US: ˈkɑːnsɪkwens

Definition

  1. n. a result or effect of an action, event, or decision

  2. n. importance or relevance (e.g., "a matter of consequence")

  3. n. (archaic) logical sequence or coherence

Structure
con <together>sequ <follow>ence <noun suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin consequentia, combining con- (intensifying "together") and sequi ("to follow"). The morpheme sequ appears in many English words (e.g., "sequence," "subsequent") and retains its core meaning of "following." Over time, "consequence" evolved from denoting logical sequence (14th c.) to emphasizing causal results (16th c.), reflecting a shift from abstract to concrete implications.

Examples

  1. The economic consequences of the policy were unforeseen.

  2. Her argument lacked logical consequence.

  3. Such small errors are of no consequence.

  4. He accepted the consequences of his actions.

  5. In Renaissance philosophy, consequence was tied to syllogistic reasoning.