take the consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

"take the consequences" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it to suggest that someone should accept the negative outcomes of their actions. For example, "If you continue to miss deadlines, you will have to take the consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I have to take the consequences".

The New York Times

Other people will not take the consequences".

The New York Times

I'll take the consequences tomorrow".

The Guardian

So now they take the consequences".

The Guardian

If you do, you'll have to take the consequences".

The New Yorker

Then with this ambition, be prepared to take the consequences.

The Guardian - Music

You make your vote and take the consequences.

The New York Times - Sports

He must take the consequences if he is propagating the views of Isis," Mr Vaz said.

Independent

And if it goes wrong, then there's only one person who will take the consequences".

The Guardian - Sport

"I want answers and I will then take the consequences of my actions".

The New York Times

It was my fault so I have to take the consequences.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take the consequences", ensure the context clearly establishes the action that leads to the consequences. Clarity helps in emphasizing accountability.

Common error

Avoid using "take the consequences" when the negative outcome is not directly attributable to the subject's actions. Ensure a clear causal link to avoid misrepresenting responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take the consequences" functions as a verb phrase indicating the acceptance of outcomes, especially negative ones, resulting from one's actions. Ludwig examples confirm its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

1%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take the consequences" is a common idiom used to convey the acceptance of outcomes resulting from one's actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register and serves to emphasize accountability. Related phrases include "face the repercussions" and "bear the responsibility". A key writing tip is to ensure a clear causal link between the action and the consequence to avoid misattribution. In summary, "take the consequences" is a versatile phrase for highlighting responsibility and accepting outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

face the repercussions

This alternative implies a more severe or formal set of consequences.

suffer the consequences

This indicates that the consequences are particularly unpleasant or difficult to bear.

bear the responsibility

This option emphasizes the moral or legal obligation to accept the outcome.

pay the price

This idiom implies that the consequences involve a significant cost or sacrifice.

accept the outcome

A more general term that covers both positive and negative results.

answer for your actions

This alternative places emphasis on explaining or justifying one's behavior.

endure the effects

This suggests a passive acceptance of lasting or ongoing consequences.

live with the results

This option suggests an ongoing acceptance of the long-term effects.

reap what you sow

This expresses a natural or karmic consequence resulting from one's deeds.

be held accountable

This focuses on being answerable for one's actions and their outcomes.

FAQs

What does "take the consequences" mean?

The phrase "take the consequences" means to accept the results or penalties for one's actions, especially when those results are negative or undesirable.

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

You can use it like this: "If you break the rules, you must "take the consequences"."

What is a formal alternative to "take the consequences"?

A more formal alternative is to "bear the responsibility" or "be held accountable".

Is it always negative when you "take the consequences"?

While often associated with negative outcomes, ""take the consequences"" simply means accepting whatever results come from your actions, whether positive or negative. However, it is most commonly used in negative contexts.