Consequently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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?

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'consequently'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'consequently' originated from the Latin word 'consequentia', which means 'following closely'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The adverb 'consequently' is commonly used to show a cause-and-effect relationship between events or actions. It is widely used in academic writing, formal speeches, and everyday conversations to indicate a logical result or consequence of a previous action or event.


See also: consequences, consequentialism, inconsequentially.

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.