consequent

Everyday

1. (formal) Consequent means happening as a result of something. tree →
2. The adverb «consequently» means «as a result» or «so». tree →

In the lessons

A formal word used in reports, science write-ups and exam answers to show cause and effect: one thing leads to another. In science it links an event to its effect: «the heavy rain and the consequent flooding». Phrases: consequent on, consequent upon, and consequently.

Examples

• The storm and the consequent power cut lasted all night. tree →
• He broke his leg and missed the consequent matches. tree →
• The river rose, with consequent damage to the houses. tree →
• It rained heavily; consequently, the match was cancelled. tree →
• Prices went up, and the consequent drop in sales worried the shop. tree →
• She did not practise and consequently forgot her lines. tree →
• The drought and the consequent lack of food hurt the animals. tree →

Note

Formal; in speech people say «so» or «because of that». Do not confuse with «consequence» (the noun: the result) or «subsequent» (coming after, but not necessarily caused by). «Consequently» is followed by a comma at the start of a sentence.