they are of consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are of consequence" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate that something is important or significant. Example: "The findings of the study are of consequence for future research." Alternative expressions include "they are significant" and "they matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The importance of atmospherics should not be exaggerated, but they are of consequence.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are of no consequence.

Independent

They are of small consequence, next to clear vision and a wide-open future.

The New York Times

They are of no consequence to Indian politics, but they matter to the Indian economy.

The New York Times

These are controversies that might engulf a public company were he the real CEO of, but they are of much less consequence for a less-than-real CEO.

The Guardian - Opinion

And they know, because they were emphatically told during their visits to support the trade center rescue workers, that how they perform is of consequence.

The New York Times - Sports

Patent thickets are, in part, a result of company strategy, but more, they are the consequence of the nature of the technology that is needed for a product.

Yale University

One possible explanation for these networks is that they are a consequence of growth of P.a.

BMC Clinical Pathology

They are the consequence of a medley of the fluctuating environment.

Advances in Difference Equations

They are the consequence of decisions made and of promises broken.

Vice

They are a consequence of territorial limitations on the power of the respective States.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

This phrase is excellent for contrasting minor issues with major ones, emphasizing that while some things are trivial, these specific items have real weight.

Common error

Do not pair "they are of consequence" with additional adjectives like "important" or "significant" in the same clause. Saying "they are of significant consequence" is acceptable, but "they are important and of consequence" is redundant. Choose one structure to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are of consequence" consists of a third-person plural subject followed by a copula verb and a prepositional phrase acting as a predicate adjective. In Ludwig, this structure is highlighted as a sophisticated way to denote inherent value or importance. The use of "of" followed by an abstract noun creates an adjectival quality that is characteristic of high-level English prose.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Social Media

5%

Wiki

10%

Informal

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they are of consequence" is a highly effective, though relatively rare, linguistic tool for signaling significance in formal writing. Ludwig data shows that while similar phrases like "they are important" are more common, this specific construction is favored by authoritative sources for its rhetorical weight. It is grammatically sound and functions best in contexts like News & Media or Science, where establishing the gravity of a topic is essential. When using this phrase, writers should ensure the tone remains elevated and avoid redundant modifiers to achieve the best stylistic results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are consequential

Uses the adjective form rather than a prepositional phrase for a more direct tone.

they are significant

A very common and slightly less formal synonym for indicating importance.

they are important

The most common and neutral way to express that something matters.

they matter

Uses a verb instead of an adjective or phrase, providing a punchier and more direct statement.

they are of import

A slightly more archaic or highly formal variation using a different noun.

they carry weight

An idiomatic expression suggesting that the items have influence or authority.

they are substantial

Implies that the items are not only important but also significant in size or volume.

they have impact

Focuses on the effects or results produced by the items rather than their inherent status.

they are relevant

Suggests that the items are closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand.

they are meaningful

Adds a layer of value or depth, suggesting the items have a specific purpose or logic.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "they are of consequence"?

The phrase means that the items being discussed are important, significant, or have a meaningful impact. It is a more formal way of saying "they matter".

Is "they are of consequence" a formal expression?

Yes, it is considered formal. In casual conversation, you would more likely use "they are important" or "they are significant".

How do I use "they are of consequence" in a sentence?

You can use it to highlight the weight of specific facts or events. For example: "The results of the election were not immediate, but they are of consequence for the nation's future."

What is the difference between "they are of consequence" and "they are consequential"?

Both essentially mean the same thing. However, "they are consequential" is more direct, while the prepositional structure of "they are of consequence" is often preferred for rhetorical emphasis in formal writing.