Repercussion vs. Consequence: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 4, 2023
"Repercussion" denotes an indirect or unintended result, often echoing back, while "Consequence" is a direct outcome or result following an action or event.
Key Differences
The words Repercussion and Consequence both refer to outcomes or results stemming from a particular event or action. However, "Repercussion" typically implies a more indirect or secondary effect, often reflecting back or echoing from the initial impact. In contrast, "Consequence" typically alludes to a direct and primary outcome.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
When considering the context of their use, Repercussion is often tied to unforeseen or collateral impacts, like the ripples in water after a stone's toss. Consequence, on the other hand, is straightforward, detailing the immediate results or outcomes of actions, decisions, or events.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Delving into etymology, Repercussion comes from Latin 'repercussus', which means "to drive back". This origin showcases its undertones of a return or bounce-back effect. Consequence, stemming from 'consequi', translates to "follow closely", highlighting its direct relation to an antecedent action or event.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
In grammatical terms, while both words predominantly function as nouns, Consequence has a broader application, sometimes referencing importance or significance. Repercussion, though, remains focused on outcomes, particularly those unintended or echoing effects.
Harlon Moss
Oct 04, 2023
Professionally, in areas like policy-making or strategic planning, a Repercussion might reference unintended side effects of a decision, while a Consequence would denote the main outcomes that were anticipated from the beginning.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Meaning
Indirect or unintended result
Direct outcome following an action
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Grammatical Usage
Mainly used as a noun
Predominantly a noun, can reference importance
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
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Repercussion and Consequence Definitions
Repercussion
An unintended consequence arising from an event or action.
The economic repercussion of the policy was not foreseen.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Consequence
A result or effect of an action or condition.
Not studying has the consequence of failing the exam.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023
Repercussion
An adverse reaction to an event.
The scandal had serious repercussion for the company.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Consequence
A logical outcome or result.
The drought was a consequence of deforestation.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 04, 2023
Repercussion
A phenomenon that emerges from a cause.
The environmental repercussion of pollution is devastating.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023
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Consequence
Importance or relevance.
The issue is of little consequence to the broader public.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 04, 2023
Repercussion
An often indirect effect, influence, or result that is produced by an event or action.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
Something that logically or naturally follows from an action or condition.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
A punishment or negative repercussion
"Sometimes a cousin's first child was born six months after the wedding.
Aside from a moment's tsk-tsk, there were no consequences" (Donald Hall).
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
A consequence or ensuing result of some action.
You realize this little stunt of yours is going to have some pretty serious repercussions.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
The act of driving back, or the state of being driven back; reflection; reverberation.
The repercussion of sound
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
That which follows something on which it depends; that which is produced by a cause.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
(medicine) The subsidence of a tumour or eruption by the action of a repellent.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
A result of actions, especially if such a result is unwanted or unpleasant.
I'm warning you. If you don't get me the report on time, there will be consequences.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
(obstetrics) In a vaginal examination, the act of imparting through the uterine wall with the finger a shock to the foetus, so that it bounds upward, and falls back again against the examining finger.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
A proposition collected from the agreement of other previous propositions; any conclusion which results from reason or argument; inference.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
The act of driving back, or the state of being driven back; reflection; reverberation; as, the repercussion of sound.
Ever echoing back in endless repercussion.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
The subsidence of a tumor or eruption by the action of a repellent.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
In a vaginal examination, the act of imparting through the uterine wall with the finger a shock to the fetus, so that it bounds upward, and falls back again against the examining finger.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
(especially when preceded by "of") Importance, value, or influence.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
A remote or indirect consequence of some action;
His declaration had unforeseen repercussions
Reverberations of the market crash were felt years later
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
(transitive) To threaten or punish (a child, etc.) with specific consequences for misbehaviour.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
That which follows something on which it depends; that which is produced by a cause; a result.
Shun to taste,And shun the bitter consequence.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
An echoing or reverberation.
The loud noise had repercussion throughout the valley.
Harlon Moss
Oct 04, 2023
Consequence
A proposition collected from the agreement of other previous propositions; any conclusion which results from reason or argument; inference.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Repercussion
A reflect back of something, especially sound or light.
The mountain caused a repercussion of the radio signal.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Consequence
Chain of causes and effects; consecution.
Such fatal consequence unites us three.
Link follows link by necessary consequence.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
Importance with respect to what comes after; power to influence or produce an effect; value; moment; rank; distinction.
It is a matter of small consequence.
A sense of your own worth and consequence.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
A phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon;
The magnetic effect was greater when the rod was lengthwise
His decision had depressing consequences for business
He acted very wise after the event
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
The outcome of an event especially as relative to an individual;
That result is of no consequence
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
Having important effects or influence;
Decisions of great consequence are made by the president himself
Virtue is of more moment that security
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 07, 2023
Consequence
An aftermath or sequel of an event.
The consequence of the war lasted for decades.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Consequence
The outcome of a sequence or series of events.
His tardiness had a negative consequence at work.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023
FAQs
Are consequences always foreseeable?
Not always. While many are predictable, some consequences can be unexpected.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023
Are Repercussion and Consequence synonyms?
While related, they're not exact synonyms; repercussions are often indirect, while consequences are direct outcomes.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Is every action's Consequence immediate?
No, consequences can be immediate or long-term.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Can policy decisions have Repercussions?
Yes, often in the form of unintended side effects or impacts.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Can an event have both Repercussion and Consequence?
Yes, an event can have direct consequences and indirect repercussions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Can a decision's Consequence be immediate?
Yes, some decisions have immediate consequences.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 04, 2023
Can a Repercussion be positive?
Yes, though it often implies unintended or unforeseen outcomes, they can be positive.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Does Repercussion always indicate a side effect?
Often, but not exclusively. It generally suggests indirect or echoing effects.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023
Can nature have Repercussions to human actions?
Yes, like climate change as a repercussion of pollution.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Which term, Repercussion or Consequence, is broader in meaning?
Consequence has a broader application, denoting any outcome, direct or indirect.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023
What is a legal Consequence?
It's a result, often punitive, stemming from a legal decision or action.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Can actions have multiple Repercussions?
Absolutely, especially in complex scenarios.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Is Repercussion often used in economic contexts?
Yes, to denote indirect or echoing effects of policies or events.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023
Can an action's Consequence be unintended?
Yes, not all consequences are foreseen or intended.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Is a Consequence always linked to a preceding action?
Generally, yes. It denotes outcomes following actions or events.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023
How do Consequence and Outcome relate?
Both indicate results, but "consequence" often carries a cause-effect implication.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Is Repercussion more about unforeseen effects?
Typically, it emphasizes unintended or indirect outcomes.
Harlon Moss
Oct 04, 2023
Are Consequences always negative?
No, they can be positive, negative, or neutral.
Harlon Moss
Oct 04, 2023
Are Repercussions always long-term?
Not necessarily; they can be short-lived or prolonged.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
