outcome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outcome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the result or consequence of a particular event, situation, or process. Example: "The outcome of the experiment was not what we had anticipated, leading to further investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The outcome?

The New York Times

"The outcome is that the urban pattern becomes more segregated, more differentiated.

The Guardian

Whatever the outcome, the battle will surely be very divisive in the country and may well propel Scotland out of the UK.

The Guardian

"But we are now very excited about the outcome.

The Guardian

The outcome lifted the Bergamaschi to 12th and kept the bottom side Catania winless on the road this season.

The Guardian - Sport

This outcome would mean a payment of around £0.8bn.

The Guardian - Business

I currently include £2.5bn for all tax and spectrum fines etc in India and therefore this outcome would be positive from a valuation perspective.

The Guardian - Business

A difference of a handful of points could make no tangible difference to the outcome of the in/out vote in the UK if one of the two sides has a clear lead (as most polls currently suggest).

The Guardian

I think the AK party will be making its own new evaluations after this outcome," Vural said.

The Guardian

The dominant narrative shaping this election – that it was neck-and-neck between Labour and the Conservatives and that a coalition deal was the most likely electoral outcome – turned out to be plain wrong.

The Guardian

The Conservative peer said that was critical of the strategy of the no campaign in Scotland and it was clear that the outcome on 18 September was "going to be very tight".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing future scenarios, use "outcome" to objectively describe potential results. For instance, "The most likely outcome is a compromise."

Common error

Avoid using "outcome" when you actually mean "output". "Output" refers to the tangible product or result of a process, while "outcome" focuses on the broader consequences or effects. For example, a factory's output is the number of goods produced, but the outcome might be increased profits or a change in market share.

Linguistic Context

The word "outcome" primarily functions as a noun. It refers to the result or consequence of an event, process, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is used correctly and is widely applicable across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "outcome" is a versatile noun denoting the result or consequence of an event or process. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage and broad applicability. It is frequently encountered in news articles, business reports, and scientific studies. While "result", "consequence", and "effect" are viable alternatives, "outcome" often carries the connotation of a more complex or long-term consequence. A key point to remember is to differentiate "outcome" from "output", the latter referring to a tangible product or result. Its register is primarily neutral, fitting seamlessly into both formal and informal contexts. Using "outcome" correctly will enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

result

Focuses on the direct consequence or effect of something.

consequence

Emphasizes the logical or natural result of an action or condition.

effect

Highlights the impact or change produced by a cause.

aftermath

Refers to the period and the results following a significant event, often negative.

conclusion

Represents the final decision or judgment reached after consideration.

upshot

Suggests the final and often unexpected result of a series of events.

culmination

Indicates the highest point or final stage of something, the result of a long process.

denouement

Used to describe the final part of a play, movie, or narrative in which the strands of the plot are drawn together and matters are explained or resolved.

payoff

Indicates a benefit or reward resulting from effort or action.

sequel

It suggests a subsequent development or event.

FAQs

How can I use "outcome" in a sentence?

Use "outcome" to refer to the result or consequence of an event or process. For example: "The "outcome" of the negotiations was a signed agreement."

What are some alternatives to "outcome"?

You can use alternatives like "result", "consequence", or "effect" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "outcome" or "result"?

Both "outcome" and "result" can often be used interchangeably. However, "outcome" often implies a more complex or long-term consequence, while "result" can be more immediate and direct.

What is the difference between "outcome" and "output"?

"Output" refers to the tangible product or result of a process, while "outcome" focuses on the broader consequences or effects of something. Consider this example: "The factory's output increased, but the long-term outcome on the environment is still being assessed."