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Ensuing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ensuing

[ɪnˈsuːɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

following events

The term 'ensuing' refers to something that occurs as a result of a preceding event or action. It often implies a sequence where one event follows another, typically in a causal relationship. For example, in a narrative or discussion, the ensuing events are directly linked to previous actions, presenting a logical progression. It may be used in various contexts, such as literature, news reports, and everyday conversations.

Synonyms

following, resulting, subsequent.

Examples of usage

  • The ensuing chaos led to a citywide curfew.
  • In the ensuing debate, many opinions were shared.
  • The ensuing conflict caused significant damage.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In narratives, 'ensuing' often helps establish cause and effect, linking characters' actions to consequences.
  • Classic literature frequently uses 'ensuing' to create suspense, showing what happens after a pivotal moment.
  • Many authors emphasize 'ensuing' events to highlight themes of fate, where the consequences unfold from earlier choices.

Science

  • In scientific research, 'ensuing' can describe outcomes of experiments, where certain variables lead to specific results.
  • The term is commonly used to explain processes in biology, such as how one reaction leads to an ensuing metabolic pathway.
  • In environmental studies, researchers discuss ensuing effects of climate changes on ecosystems, showing interconnectivity in nature.

Everyday Usage

  • You might hear the term used in news headlines, like 'the ensuing chaos after a major announcement', indicating what followed.
  • People often refer to 'ensuing discussions' in meetings, emphasizing the talk that takes place after a main topic is covered.
  • 'Ensuing' also appears in legal contexts, where it denotes events or actions that follow a significant legal ruling.

Cultural Reference

  • 'Ensuing' is commonly found in film plots that reveal the aftermath of a critical event, building tension during the narrative.
  • In music, lyrics may describe ensuing emotions that follow a breakup, highlighting the feelings that develop over time.
  • The word can also be used in sports commentary, as analysts discuss the ensuing plays after a strategy change that impacted the game.

Origin of 'ensuing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'ensuivre', meaning 'to follow', which indicates something that follows another event.
  • Its Latin root 'insequi' also means 'to follow closely', carrying the same essence of sequential events.
  • The word has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, first appearing in the 14th century in literary texts.

The word 'ensuing' originates from the Old French term 'ensuivre,' which means 'to follow.' This term was derived from the Latin word 'insequi,' meaning 'to follow closely.' In Middle English, it started to take on its modern form and usage. The evolution of the term reflects the shift in its application, particularly in literature and formal speech. 'Ensuing' is often used in legal and formal contexts to describe a situation that develops as a consequence of another. It retains this notion of continuity and sequence, making it a vital term in both written and spoken English.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,165 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.