embrace the consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "embrace the consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the acceptance of outcomes or repercussions resulting from one's actions or decisions. Example: "If you choose to take that risk, you must be prepared to embrace the consequences that follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I will embrace the consequences.

The Guardian - Opinion

That doesn't mean he won't adapt to new responsibilities and embrace the consequences.

The Guardian

While both the countries embrace the consequences of climate change, Pakistan suffers more due to its small resilience and resources to adapt to climate variability.

Huffington Post

It is not worth much for a school to claim to embrace open education when it cannot fully embrace the consequences of openly shared knowledge.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Dr. Rowland did not shy from embracing the consequences of his theory and pushing Congress to ban CFC's.

The New York Times - Science

On one reading of this remark, Descartes is explicitly embracing the consequence of having defined knowledge wholly in terms of unshakable conviction: he's conceding that achieving the brand of knowledge he seeks is compatible with being — "absolutely speaking" — in error.

SEP

It is possible that physicians may not be comfortable with the idea of any behaviours, including SDM, being legislated even if they embrace the potential positive consequences of doing so.

BMJ Open

Stirner embraces the stark consequences of this rejection of any general obligation towards others, insisting, for example, that the egoist does not renounce "even the power over life and death" (282).

SEP

Still, it was bold of Einstein to embrace the light principle, for its consequences seemed downright absurd.

The New Yorker

As a consequence, French firms need to embrace the diversity that this comes with.

The Economist

There would be disastrous consequences for city agencies to fully embrace the worst scenarios".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "embrace the consequences" when you want to convey a sense of proactive acceptance and willingness to learn from the outcomes of your choices, rather than merely enduring them.

Common error

Avoid using "embrace the consequences" when the situation calls for simply acknowledging a negative outcome. This phrase implies a willingness to actively engage with and learn from the repercussions, not just passively accepting them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "embrace the consequences" functions as a verb phrase, where "embrace" acts as a transitive verb taking "the consequences" as its direct object. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and expresses acceptance of the results of actions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "embrace the consequences" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that conveys a proactive acceptance of the outcomes resulting from one's actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage implies a willingness to learn and grow from these experiences. While the phrase appears more often in news and media, it's suitable for various contexts with a neutral tone. Alternatives such as "accept the repercussions" or "take responsibility for the fallout" offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality and emphasis. Therefore, use this phrase when you wish to express not just acceptance, but also an active engagement with the results of your choices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accept the repercussions

Focuses on accepting the results, often negative, of an action; emphasizes acceptance over active engagement.

face the music

Idiomatic expression meaning to confront the unpleasant consequences of one's actions; more informal.

take responsibility for the fallout

Highlights assuming accountability for the negative effects that arise from a situation.

own the outcomes

Emphasizes personal ownership and acceptance of the results, whether positive or negative.

bear the burden

Focuses on enduring or carrying the weight of the consequences; often implies hardship.

deal with the aftermath

Concentrates on managing the period following an event and its consequences.

live with the results

Highlights the ongoing experience of coexisting with the effects of a decision or action.

reap what you sow

An idiomatic expression indicating that one will experience the consequences of their actions; carries a moralistic tone.

shoulder the responsibility

Highlights the act of accepting accountability for the results or effects of something.

stand by your actions

Highlights defending or supporting your actions and their consequences.

FAQs

What does "embrace the consequences" mean?

It means to accept and deal with the results of your actions, both positive and negative, with a willingness to learn and grow from the experience. It implies a proactive approach to handling outcomes.

How can I use "embrace the consequences" in a sentence?

You might say, "If you choose to pursue this risky venture, you must be prepared to "embrace the consequences"", meaning you should be ready to handle whatever results from your decision.

What's a more formal way to say "embrace the consequences"?

More formal alternatives include "accept the repercussions" or "take responsibility for the fallout". These options convey a similar meaning but are less figurative.

Is "embrace the consequences" always used in a negative context?

Not necessarily. While often used when discussing potential negative outcomes, "embrace the consequences" can also apply to positive results, emphasizing a willingness to fully experience and learn from the overall impact of one's actions. If you obtain a promotion for example, you can "take responsibility for the new role" and understand it well.