Repercussion: meaning, definitions and examples

Repercussion is often used to describe a negative or unintended consequence that comes after an event or decision. It usually carries a sense of a long-term effect.

• The new policy had serious repercussions for the company's reputation.
• His actions caused unforeseen repercussions in the community.

Consequence is a neutral term that highlights something that follows from an action or decision. It can be either positive or negative.

• Driving without a license could have serious legal consequences.
• Winning the lottery had many positive consequences for her life.

Result is a general term for something that happens or exists because of something else. It can be used in everyday situations and is neutral in tone.

• The experiment yielded interesting results.
• As a result of the training, employees felt more confident.

Outcome refers to the final result or end situation that follows from an activity, process, or series of events. It is often used in discussions involving plans or strategies.

• The outcome of the election was surprising to many.
• After months of negotiations, the outcome was a favorable deal.

Effect is a broad term used for a change that is a direct result of an action, decision, or other cause.

• The new law will go into effect next month.
• The medicine had an immediate effect on his headache.

Impact often suggests a strong or significant effect. It is commonly used in contexts involving social, environmental, or economic changes.

• The hurricane had a devastating impact on the coastal regions.
• Her dedication to the project had a huge impact on its success.

This word is commonly used to describe unintended or long-term effects of an action or event, often with a negative connotation.

• The environmental repercussions of deforestation are becoming more apparent each year.
• She didn't foresee the social repercussions of her decision.

This term is often used to express the complex or unforeseen results of an action or decision, particularly emphasizing the branching-out effect.

• The new law has several ramifications for small businesses.
• They did not fully understand the ramifications of their actions.

This term is typically used to describe the period following a significant, often disastrous, event, emphasizing the effects and conditions that result from it.

• The aftermath of the earthquake left the city in ruins.
• In the aftermath of the scandal, the company's reputation was severely damaged.

Generally used in a negative context, this word describes the adverse effects or outcomes of a particular event or action. It can also refer to the literal radioactive particles resulting from a nuclear explosion.

• The political fallout from the election scandal was immense.

This word is used to describe any result or outcome of an action, whether positive or negative. It is more neutral compared to other terms in the list.

• Every decision you make has a consequence.
• The consequence of not studying was failing the test.