Outgrowth: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when you are talking about something that develops naturally from a preceding condition or situation, especially when it is a logical or natural development.

• The political movement was an outgrowth of social unrest.
• Her study habits were an outgrowth of her parents' emphasis on education.

This word is suitable for situations where the final result of a process, plan, or event is being described without implying bias towards positive or negative.

• The outcome of the election was surprising.
• We were all anxious about the outcome of the test.

Use 'consequence' when talking about something that happens as a direct result of an action or decision, often carrying a negative connotation.

• The consequence of skipping school was a week of detention.
• His arrogance had severe consequences on his career.

Use 'result' when discussing the effect or outcome of a specific action, decision, or event. It is general and neutral but can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

• The experiment yielded promising results.
• As a result of his hard work, he was promoted.

This term is best for describing something incidental or secondary that is produced in the process of making something else, usually unintended.

• Molasses is a by-product of sugar refining.
• Increased traffic is a by-product of urban development.