consequence
n. · v.-
1 a result (n.) B1 Intermediatea result or effect of an action or condition, especially one that is bad.
a result or effect of an action or condition; frequently used to denote a negative outcome.
ExampleIf you don't study for the exam, you will have to face the consequences.
ExampleThe environmental consequences of the oil spill were far more severe than the initial reports had suggested to the public.
UsageOften used in the plural 'consequences' when discussing potential risks.
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2 importance (n.) C1 Advanced Formalthe quality of being important or having a big influence.
importance, significance, or social distinction.
ExampleThe exact date of the meeting is of little consequence as long as everyone attends.
ExampleIn the grand scheme of the negotiations, the minor disagreement over the font size was of no consequence to the final agreement.
UsageCommonly appears in the phrase 'of little consequence' or 'of no consequence'.
- insignificance
- triviality
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3 to discipline (v.) C2 Proficiency Informalto give a child a punishment or a result for their bad behaviour.
to apply a specific consequence or disciplinary action to a person, typically a child, following misbehaviour.
ExampleThe teacher had to consequence the student for repeatedly interrupting the lesson.
ExampleModern parenting strategies often suggest that parents should consequence their children immediately so the link between action and result is clear.
UsageThis is a relatively modern, often pedagogical usage where the noun is converted into a transitive verb.
From Middle English consequence, from Old French consequence, from Latin consequentia. While analysable as con- + sequence, its adjective form has a different origin.