consequence
n. C / Un. the result or outcome of an action or event. It can be good, bad, or neutral depending on the situation.
n. an outcome or result that follows from an action or event. Often used in formal contexts.
The consequence of not paying the bill was a late fee.
The government announced new policies to address the consequence of rising unemployment rates.
The consequence of prolonged isolation during the pandemic was a significant increase in mental health issues among the elderly.
From Middle English consequence, from Old French consequence, from Latin consequentia. While analysable as con- + sequence, its adjective form has a different origin.
Countable noun. Often used in formal or academic writing.
the consequence of the sequence of eventsthe consequence of the eventsLearners may confuse 'consequence' with 'sequence,' but 'consequence' refers to the result, not the order of events.