have consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the potential outcomes or effects of an action or decision. Example: "Every choice we make can have consequences that affect our future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Illegality should have consequences.

Independent

"Your clicks have consequences.

The New York Times

Words have consequences.

Independent

* * * Dreams have consequences.

The New Yorker

They have consequences.

The New York Times

But elections have consequences.

The New York Times

Ideas do have consequences.

The New York Times

And appearances have consequences.

The New York Times

Both have consequences for education.

The New York Times

But they also have consequences.

The New York Times - Books

Cost-cutting measures have consequences.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language by using synonyms like "lead to outcomes" or "result in effects" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "have consequences" without specifying what those consequences are. Saying "this decision will have consequences" is less effective than explaining "this decision will have consequences, potentially leading to financial losses and reputational damage".

Linguistic Context

Indicates causality. The phrase "have consequences" functions as a predicate, asserting that a subject (action, decision, event, etc.) will produce specific outcomes or results. It serves to establish a cause-and-effect relationship, as Ludwig examples demonstrate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have consequences" is a versatile and frequently used expression that serves to highlight the potential outcomes of actions, decisions, or events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While it is essential for conveying the idea that choices matter, it is most effective when the specific consequences are clearly articulated. Alternatives such as "lead to outcomes" or "result in effects" can add nuance, but the core message remains the same: actions matter and have repercussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

entail repercussions

This alternative highlights the negative or far-reaching effects of an action or decision.

lead to outcomes

This phrase focuses on the resulting effects of a particular cause or event.

result in effects

This option emphasizes the direct impact or changes caused by an action.

generate impacts

This suggests a broader and potentially measurable effect from a specific action.

produce ramifications

This highlights the complex and branching outcomes that stem from a decision or event.

bring about results

This phrase underscores the causative relationship between an action and its subsequent effects.

create a domino effect

This option conveys how one action triggers a series of related consequences.

set in motion a chain of events

This emphasizes the initiation of a sequence of occurrences triggered by an initial action.

trigger a reaction

This phrase highlights the responsive nature of consequences, suggesting a direct response to an action.

beget outcomes

This alternative focuses on the generative aspect of consequences, implying that actions give rise to specific results.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "has consequences"?

When something "has consequences", it means that a particular action, event, or decision will lead to specific outcomes or results. These outcomes can be positive, negative, or neutral, depending on the context.

How can I use "have consequences" in a sentence?

You can use "have consequences" in a sentence to indicate that an action will result in specific effects. For example: "Ignoring safety regulations can "have consequences" for worker safety".

What are some alternatives to saying "have consequences"?

Alternatives to "have consequences" include phrases like "lead to outcomes", "result in effects", or "entail repercussions", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "have consequences"?

The phrase "have consequences" is appropriate in a wide range of contexts, including discussions about politics, ethics, personal decisions, and business strategies. It is suitable whenever you want to emphasize the potential impact of an action or choice.