implication
n. countablen. a result or effect that is likely to happen in the future because of an action or decision. It can also mean a suggestion that is not stated directly.
n. a possible future effect or result of an action or event; also, the conclusion that can be drawn from something although it is not explicitly stated.
The new law has serious implications for small businesses.
The research team spent months discussing the ethical implications of their findings before publishing the final report.
While the CEO did not explicitly mention layoffs, the implication of his speech regarding cost-cutting measures was clear to everyone in the room.
From Middle French implication, from Latin implicationem (accusative of implicatio).Equivalent to implicate + -ion.
Frequently used in the plural form when referring to consequences; often followed by the preposition 'for' or 'of'.