Knock-on effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Knock-on effect" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where one event causes a series of other events to happen as a consequence. Example: "The new policy implemented by the government had a knock-on effect on the local economy, leading to increased job opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Lifestyle

Society

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Diversity on screen is one thing, but does it have any knock-on effect off screen?

The Guardian - Opinion

Did it have a knock-on effect?

The Guardian - Sport

What will be the knock-on effect?

The Guardian - Arts

This will have a knock-on effect.

The Guardian

That has a knock-on effect.

The Guardian

This had a disastrous knock-on effect.

The Guardian - Sport

This has had a knock-on effect.

The Guardian - Sport

"Which has a knock-on effect.

The Guardian

The closure even had a knock-on effect for childminders.

The Guardian - Business

(Robots don't have cuffs; there's a knock-on effect).

The Guardian

"This is the knock-on effect," says Paul.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "knock-on effect", be specific about the initial event and the subsequent consequences to ensure clarity for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "knock-on effect" without clearly identifying the cause and the specific consequences. Ensure the connection between the initial event and the effect is evident, rather than making a vague assertion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Knock-on effect" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a secondary, often unintended consequence resulting from an initial action or event. Ludwig AI validates its appropriate usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Business

15%

Sport

10%

Less common in

Lifestyle

5%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Knock-on effect" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a chain of consequences stemming from an initial event. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase frequently appears in news, business, and sports contexts. It's essential to clearly identify the cause and consequences when using this phrase to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "ripple effect" and "chain reaction". According to Ludwig, the phrase carries a neutral tone and can be used in both professional and informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Flow-on effect

Synonymous to "Knock-on effect", commonly used in Australian English.

Ripple effect

Focuses on the spreading, wave-like nature of consequences.

Chain reaction

Emphasizes a sequence of events where each event triggers the next.

Domino effect

Highlights a series of linked events where one falling triggers the others.

Secondary consequence

Stresses the derivative or indirect nature of the result.

Unintended consequence

Highlights that the effect was not planned or anticipated.

Repercussion

Focuses on the negative or undesirable consequences of an action.

Ramification

Implies a complex and branching set of consequences.

Aftermath

Highlights the consequences that follow a significant event.

Side effect

Focuses on the additional and sometimes unexpected result.

FAQs

How can I use "Knock-on effect" in a sentence?

Use "knock-on effect" to describe how one event triggers a series of subsequent effects. For example, "The factory closure had a "knock-on effect" on local businesses."

What can I say instead of "Knock-on effect"?

You can use alternatives like "ripple effect", "chain reaction", or "domino effect" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "Knock-on effects"?

Yes, "Knock-on effects" is the plural form and is appropriate when referring to multiple consequences. For example, "The policy changes had several "knock-on effects" on the economy."

What's the difference between "Knock-on effect" and "Side effect"?

"Knock-on effect" describes a chain of consequences, while "side effect" typically refers to an additional, often unintended, outcome of a primary action or event.