a tragic consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tragic consequence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unfortunate outcome that results from a particular action or event. Example: "The decision to ignore safety protocols led to a tragic consequence that affected many lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"This is a tragic consequence of open heart surgery," Mr. Fronk said.

The New York Times

"This is a tragic consequence of the way in which the Gardendale Board attempted to separate," Haikala wrote.

The Washington Post

Mass strandings thus seem to be a tragic consequence of social bonding -- which is particularly intense in pilot whales.

The New York Times

The loss of dramatic material had a tragic consequence: it meant he would now do comic material.

The New York Times

The prevalence of these diseases in the Caribbean is at least in part a tragic consequence of the slave trade.

The New York Times

As the encyclical notes, Paul VI first raised the issue as long ago as 1971, describing it as a "tragic consequence" of uncontrolled human activity.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

That is wrong and in this case ended up with a very tragic consequence that sadly could have been avoided," said Joe Pichirallo, chair of the undergraduate film and television department at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, and a former studio executive.

Los Angeles Times

Rising xenophobia is a predictable and tragic consequence of this leadership vacuum.

Harvard University

Granted, he does have the comportment and vocal characteristic of a canine, but this is, in fact, the tragic consequence of a botched elective surgery that Scooby underwent at the hands of his friend Shaggy, who was briefly enrolled in a plastic-surgery program at a medical school that he no longer attends.

The New Yorker

The thousands of young people who remain displaced both physically and emotionally by Katrina are yet another tragic consequence of an inadequate disaster recovery structure that severely neglects the needs of young people.

The New York Times

Willem Dafoe is set to play the title role in The Widow's Lover, about a young Italian widow who starts an affair with a caretaker, with tragic consequences.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tragic consequence" to clearly link an action or event to its devastating result, ensuring the connection is evident to your audience. This strengthens the impact of your message and provides clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a tragic consequence" in situations that are merely unfortunate but lack true severity. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact and can make your writing sound overly dramatic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tragic consequence" functions as a noun phrase that describes a negative outcome or result. It typically follows a statement of cause or action, indicating the unfortunate event that stemmed from it. Ludwig shows that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tragic consequence" is a noun phrase used to describe a deeply unfortunate and severe outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While most frequently found in news and media, it is understood across different registers and serves to emphasize the gravity of a situation. Alternatives include "a disastrous outcome" or "an unfortunate result", each with slightly different nuances. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the true severity of the situation to avoid sounding melodramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disastrous outcome

Focuses on the catastrophic nature of the result.

an unfortunate result

Emphasizes the negative and undesirable nature of the consequence.

a calamitous effect

Highlights the devastating impact of the consequence.

a devastating aftermath

Focuses on the destructive period following an event.

a regrettable development

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow or disappointment associated with the outcome.

a dire ramification

Highlights the severe and serious nature of the consequence.

a painful repercussion

Focuses on the suffering caused by the consequence.

a bitter fruit

Uses a metaphor to describe the unpleasant result of an action.

a sorrowful conclusion

Highlights the sadness and finality of the outcome.

a lamentable sequel

Emphasizes the regrettable nature of the events that followed.

FAQs

How can I use "a tragic consequence" in a sentence?

Use "a tragic consequence" to describe a severe and unfortunate outcome resulting from a particular action or event. For example, "The lack of safety regulations had "a tragic consequence"."

What are some alternatives to "a tragic consequence"?

You can use alternatives like "a disastrous outcome", "an unfortunate result", or "a calamitous effect", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a tragic consequence" in formal writing?

Yes, "a tragic consequence" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing serious or significant negative outcomes. It clearly and effectively conveys the gravity of the situation.

What distinguishes "a tragic consequence" from a simple "bad result"?

"A tragic consequence" implies a severe and deeply unfortunate outcome, often involving loss or suffering. A "bad result" is a more general term for any undesirable outcome, lacking the intensity and emotional weight of "a tragic consequence".