Outcomes and their effects in English

The idea

Result names what happens or what an activity produces. Consequence focuses on an effect of an action or event. Both can describe the same outcome.

Examples

• The result of the match was a draw.
• Mina checked the result of her blood test.
• The result of our experiment surprised the class.
• One consequence of the road closure was a longer journey to school.
• A positive consequence of the new park is that neighbours meet more often.
• Before changing jobs, Alex considered the consequences for the family.

Watch out

Do not assume that a consequence must be negative: it can be positive too.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct word or words. The doctor sent me my blood test ___. (result / consequence)

   Show answer or example answer

   result

   result: This is the usual word for a blood test finding.

2. Choose the correct word or words. The delay was a ___ of the storm. (result / consequence)

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   result / consequence

   result / consequence: Both name the delay as an outcome of the storm.

3. Choose the correct word or words. The new bus route had a positive ___: more people could reach the library. (result / consequence)

   Show answer or example answer

   result / consequence

   result / consequence: Both fit; the sentence highlights a beneficial effect.

Use it today

Choose all natural completions, then describe an outcome and one of its effects.