Consequently: meaning, definitions and examples

⬆️
Add to dictionary

consequently

 

[ˈkɑnsɪˌkwɛntli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a sequence of events

As a result or effect of something that happened earlier; therefore.

Synonyms

as a result, hence, therefore, thus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
consequently

Use to show a logical or natural result of a previous statement. Common in academic or formal writing.

  • The experiment was poorly designed; consequently, the results were inconclusive
therefore

Formal and logical, to indicate a conclusion based on preceding information.

  • She studied hard; therefore, she passed the exam with flying colors
thus

Used in formal contexts to show cause and effect, often implying a more immediate or direct result.

  • The weather has been unpredictable; thus, the event was postponed
hence

Formal, used to show a logical conclusion, often replacing 'from this' or 'from here.'

  • He had been working for hours, hence the exhaustion on his face
as a result

More neutral and versatile, often used in both formal and informal contexts to show cause and effect.

  • He missed the bus, and as a result, he was late for his appointment

Examples of usage

  • Consequently, he decided to resign from his job.
  • She missed the train and consequently arrived late to the meeting.
  • The project was delayed, and consequently, the budget had to be revised.
  • It rained heavily, and consequently, the sports event was canceled.
  • Consequently, the team had to come up with a new strategy.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'consequentem,' meaning 'following closely' or 'resulting.'
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, emphasizing the relationship between events.
  • The prefix 'con-' means 'together' or 'with,' while 'sequent' relates to following in order.

Literature

  • Writers often use it to connect cause and effect, creating clear logic in narratives.
  • Classic literature frequently showcases characters making choices and facing consequences, demonstrating personal growth.
  • In poetry, it helps establish themes, linking emotional states to events.

Grammar

  • 'Consequently' is an adverb used to indicate a logical result – it often starts sentences that describe outcomes.
  • It's a formal way to connect ideas, making writing more sophisticated and clear.
  • Often found in essays and reports, it helps guide readers through arguments smoothly.

Psychology

  • The concept connects to human behavior as people often assess outcomes based on their actions.
  • Cognitive psychology studies how understanding consequences shapes decision-making.
  • People learn from previous experiences; the brain uses consequences as a feedback mechanism.

Everyday Contexts

  • You might use it when explaining plans: 'We will study hard; consequently, we'll pass the exam.'
  • In conversation, it helps clarify why something happened in a chain of events.
  • People often reflect on past choices and their outcomes, using 'consequently' to make sense of experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "consequently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 consequentemente

🇮🇳 इसलिए

🇩🇪 folglich

🇮🇩 akibatnya

🇺🇦 внаслідок

🇵🇱 w związku z tym

🇯🇵 その結果

🇫🇷 par conséquent

🇪🇸 por lo tanto

🇹🇷 sonuç olarak

🇰🇷 따라서

🇸🇦 بالتالي

🇨🇿 následně

🇸🇰 následne

🇨🇳 因此

🇸🇮 posledično

🇮🇸 þess vegna

🇰🇿 сәйкесінше

🇬🇪 შედეგად

🇦🇿 nəticədə

🇲🇽 por lo tanto

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,990, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.