suffer the consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suffer the consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
Generally, it is used to imply that a person will experience the negative outcomes of a certain choice or action. For example, "If you break the law, you will have to suffer the consequences".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Now this immature boy has to suffer the consequence of what supposedly mature adults did.

The New York Times

If they have neglected to do this, they must suffer the consequence of being subordinated to the lender's security interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Paul said, "Blacks and minorities who are involved with drugs are arrested disproportionately; they are tried and imprisoned disproportionately; they suffer the consequence of the death penalty disproportionately.

The New Yorker

Coach Carlo Ancelotti's response was to push youth to the fore against Zilina on Tuesday — and for a time suffer the consequence.

The New York Times - Sports

Those everyday businesses will, at some point or another, suffer the consequence of lost revenue.

TechCrunch

The guards had previously told prisoner leaders that they should not attempt to escape, else suffer the consequence of being killed.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Now we suffer the consequences".

The New York Times - Sports

Financially, they suffer the consequences.

The New York Times - Health

Pay the man or suffer the consequences.

The New York Times - Sports

If you stop you suffer the consequences".

Independent

Sometimes you have to suffer the consequences.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suffer the consequence", ensure the connection between the action and its result is clear to maintain a cause-and-effect relationship in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "suffer the consequence" for minor inconveniences; reserve it for situations where the negative outcome is significant and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suffer the consequence" primarily functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI shows it indicates experiencing the negative results of an action or decision, often carrying a sense of inevitability or deservedness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "suffer the consequence" is a grammatically sound expression used to indicate experiencing the negative results of one's actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable, though the plural form, "suffer the consequences", is more common. While its usage spans various contexts, it is primarily found in news and media, often conveying a neutral or slightly formal tone. Related phrases include "face the music" and "pay the price", offering alternative ways to express similar meanings. When employing this phrase, it's essential to ensure the link between action and consequence is clear and that the severity of the outcome aligns with the gravity of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

endure the repercussions

Replaces "suffer" with "endure" and "consequence" with "repercussions", emphasizing the act of bearing the negative outcomes.

suffer the penalty

Highlights the punitive aspect of the consequence.

pay the price

Highlights the cost or penalty associated with an action.

experience the fallout

Implies dealing with the widespread or lasting effects of a consequence.

face the music

An idiomatic alternative that suggests confronting the negative results of one's actions.

take the hit

Suggests absorbing or withstanding the impact of the consequence.

bear the burden

Focuses on the weight or difficulty of the consequence.

reap what you sow

An idiomatic phrase indicating that actions inevitably lead to corresponding consequences.

sustain the damage

Focuses on the harm or injury caused by the consequence.

accept the outcome

Emphasizes acknowledging and taking responsibility for the result.

FAQs

What does it mean to "suffer the consequence"?

To "suffer the consequence" means to experience the negative results or penalties that follow a particular action or decision. It implies that one must bear the burden of the unfavorable outcome.

How can I use "suffer the consequence" in a sentence?

You can use it to indicate that someone will face the repercussions of their actions. For instance, "If you don't study, you will "suffer the consequences" and fail the exam."

What can I say instead of "suffer the consequence"?

You can use alternatives like "face the music", "pay the price", or "endure the repercussions" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "suffer the consequences" instead of "suffer the consequence"?

While "suffer the consequence" is grammatically correct, "suffer the consequences" is more common as it often refers to multiple or ongoing negative effects. Both are usable, but the plural form is generally preferred. In some specific scenarios using the singular form, like "suffer the consequence of being late", is also acceptable.