Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
secondary consequences
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "secondary consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the indirect or subsequent effects that result from an action or decision. Example: "The new policy may lead to secondary consequences that were not initially anticipated, such as increased employee turnover."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
We know very little about secondary consequences.
News & Media
Policies that ameliorate wrongs often have undesirable secondary consequences.
News & Media
"When you globalize trade, you globalize unexpected secondary consequences of trade," Fisher says.
News & Media
Neurogenic bladder dysfunction and urinary tract infection (UTI) are common secondary consequences to neurological damage to the spinal cord.
Science & Research
Tamoxifen-induced expression in adult β cells led to diabetes within 2 weeks, with similar secondary consequences.
Science
Because of its safety concern, we have to prove, and build confidence in, the primary and secondary consequences of the crashing will be acceptable.
Each year in the United Kingdom, around 1,200 people are diagnosed with a spinal cord injury (SCI), of which bladder dysfunction and urinary tract infection (UTI) are common secondary consequences.
Science & Research
Beaumont's dire situation and the uncontrolled chemical fire near Crosby, Tex., provided vivid reminders of the cascading effects of a natural disaster: wind, storm surge, torrential rain, floodwaters and now all the secondary consequences, including industrial accidents, environmental contamination, and broad concerns about sickness and disease.
News & Media
The electrophysiology findings, though clearly implying dysfunction of the photoreceptor layer, were initially deemed secondary consequences of (primary) RPE dysfunction.
However, women were much more concerned about challenges to meeting other basic needs at reentry, some of which were the secondary consequences of incarceration.
Science
This phenomenon is due to the loss of structural water dislodged from the channels and has secondary consequences on partial electrolyte degradation [38].
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing complex issues, explicitly identify both primary and "secondary consequences" to ensure comprehensive analysis and understanding.
Common error
Don't only focus on immediate results; analyze potential "secondary consequences" to avoid overlooking crucial long-term impacts that may undermine initial benefits.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "secondary consequences" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes the subsequent or indirect results of an action or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used correctly and effectively in various contexts.
Frequent in
Science
48%
News & Media
30%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "secondary consequences" is a frequently used noun phrase that effectively describes the indirect or subsequent effects of actions or events. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and applicable across varied registers, with particular prevalence in science and news reporting. When writing, remember to consider both primary and "secondary consequences" for a comprehensive analysis, and avoid focusing solely on immediate results. Alternatives such as "indirect repercussions" or "unintended outcomes" can offer nuance, but the core meaning remains consistent: examining the ripple effects of decisions.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
indirect repercussions
Focuses on the less direct and often negative impact.
unintended outcomes
Highlights the lack of intention behind the results.
downstream effects
Emphasizes the sequential nature of the consequences.
subsequent ramifications
Stresses the long-term and complex nature of the outcomes.
derivative impacts
Indicates that the effects are derived from an initial action.
ensuing effects
Highlights the immediate follow-up of the result.
ancillary results
Refers to the supporting or additional outcomes.
knock-on effects
Implies a cascading series of consequences.
collateral impacts
Highlights effects that were not the primary target or intention.
side effects
Often used in medical or technical contexts.
FAQs
How can I use "secondary consequences" in a sentence?
You can use "secondary consequences" to describe the indirect or subsequent effects of an action or event. For example: "The policy change had several "secondary consequences", including a decrease in employee morale".
What are some alternatives to "secondary consequences"?
Alternatives include "indirect repercussions", "unintended outcomes", or "downstream effects", depending on the specific context.
Are "secondary consequences" always negative?
No, "secondary consequences" can be either positive or negative. They simply refer to the effects that are not the direct or primary result of an action.
What is the difference between "primary consequences" and "secondary consequences"?
"Primary consequences" are the immediate and direct results of an action, while "secondary consequences" are the later, indirect results that stem from the primary ones.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested