face the consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

This phrase is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when someone has done something wrong and must accept the resulting consequences. For example: "If you do not do your homework, you will have to face the consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now face the consequences.

The New York Times

Accept it or face the consequences.

The New York Times

"Otherwise I have to face the consequences".

The New York Times

You face the consequences when you speed".

The New York Times - Sports

Now, workers face the consequences.

The Washington Post

They will face the consequences.

The New York Times

"Children alive today will face the consequences.

The Guardian - Tech

Scientists must now face the consequences.

The New York Times

I'd have to face the consequences.

The Guardian - Sport

Will they confess and face the consequences?

The Guardian - Film

Britain needs to face the consequences of its past choices.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "face the consequences" when emphasizing that someone must accept the results of their actions, whether good or bad. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, and is often used in discussions of responsibility, justice, and decision-making.

Common error

While both "consequences" and "repercussions" refer to the results of an action, "repercussions" often implies more severe or far-reaching negative effects. Use "face the consequences" for general outcomes, and reserve "face the repercussions" for situations with serious negative impacts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "face the consequences" functions as a verb phrase. It typically acts as the predicate of a sentence, expressing the action of accepting or dealing with the results of one's actions. The examples in Ludwig show it is used when there is an action and there are some results derived from it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "face the consequences" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey the idea of accepting the results of one's actions. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous real-world examples across various contexts, particularly in news and media. Alternatives such as "accept the repercussions" or "take responsibility" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using this phrase, remember to consider the severity of the situation and choose "consequences" or "repercussions" accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accept the repercussions

This alternative focuses on accepting the aftereffects, often negative, of an action.

pay the price

This phrase suggests incurring a cost or penalty as a result of one's actions.

suffer the effects

This alternative highlights experiencing the impact or results, often undesirable.

take responsibility

This emphasizes acknowledging accountability for the outcome.

endure the fallout

This suggests withstanding the negative aftermath or repercussions of an event or action.

bear the burden

This phrase implies enduring the negative weight or hardship resulting from something.

answer for actions

This implies being held accountable and providing justification for one's behavior.

meet the judgment

This conveys encountering or experiencing the verdict or outcome, often in a legal or moral context.

experience the results

This alternative highlights the direct experience of the outcomes, both positive and negative.

live with the outcome

This suggests accepting and adapting to the consequences, whether favorable or unfavorable.

FAQs

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

You can use "face the consequences" to indicate that someone must accept the results of their actions. For example, "If you break the law, you must "face the consequences"."

What are some alternatives to "face the consequences"?

Some alternatives include "accept the repercussions", "bear the burden", or "take responsibility" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "face the consequence" or "face the consequences"?

"Face the consequences" is generally preferred because actions often have multiple outcomes. "Face the consequence" might be appropriate if referring to a single, specific result.

What does it mean to "face the consequences of your actions"?

It means that you must accept and deal with whatever results come from something you have done, especially if those results are negative or unpleasant.