unexpected consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unexpected consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe outcomes that were not anticipated or foreseen as a result of an action or decision. Example: "The new policy aimed at reducing waste led to unexpected consequences, including increased costs for the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unexpected consequences might arise.

Nature

So did Colorado, but with unexpected consequences.

Independent

But they can have unexpected consequences.

The Economist

Remember the theory of unexpected consequences!

The New York Times

And a catalogue often has unexpected consequences.

The Guardian - Books

This début novel examines the unexpected consequences of literary fame.

The New Yorker

The well-intentioned rule is having unexpected consequences.

The New York Times - Sports

The shift away from cash has had unexpected consequences.

The Guardian

Single-minded attention to direct labor can produce unexpected consequences.

Harvard Business Review

Those warmer water temperatures have some perhaps unexpected consequences, too.

The Washington Post

But in diplomacy, arbitrary deadlines yield unexpected consequences.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex systems or policies, consider the potential for "unexpected consequences". Thoroughly analyze potential outcomes to avoid unintended negative impacts.

Common error

Avoid assuming that actions will have straightforward, predictable results. Recognize that interventions in complex situations can produce unforeseen and counterintuitive effects. Consider alternative scenarios and prepare contingency plans.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unexpected consequences" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a verb. It describes results or outcomes that were not anticipated or predicted. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is both grammatically correct and widely used. Examples include "The policy had unexpected consequences" or "We must consider the unexpected consequences."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unexpected consequences" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe outcomes that were not predicted or intended. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is considered correct and versatile. The phrase appears across a variety of contexts, notably in news, scientific literature, and formal business communication, indicating its relevance in discussing complex systems and the potential for unforeseen results. When writing, remember to consider potential outcomes beyond the obvious and use this phrase to highlight the unpredictable nature of many situations. Some alternatives are "unforeseen consequences" and "unintended outcomes".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

surprising consequences

Focuses on the element of surprise associated with the outcome.

unpredicted consequences

Emphasizes the lack of prior prediction.

unforeseen consequences

Highlights the inability to see the consequences beforehand.

unintended consequences

Stresses the lack of intention behind the outcomes.

unplanned consequences

Focuses on the lack of planning related to the results.

unpredictable consequences

Highlights the impossibility to predict consequences.

incidental consequences

Focuses on consequences occurring as a side effect.

unannounced consequences

Highlights that the consequences were not previously declared or signaled.

unexpected impacts

Uses "impacts" instead of "consequences", implying a strong effect.

unexpected repercussions

Emphasizes the ripple effect or indirect results of an action.

FAQs

How can I use "unexpected consequences" in a sentence?

You can use "unexpected consequences" to describe situations where actions lead to results that were not initially anticipated. For example, "The new environmental policy had some "unexpected consequences", such as a decline in local tourism."

What's a more formal way to say "unexpected consequences"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "unforeseen ramifications" or "unintended outcomes". These alternatives maintain a professional and objective tone while conveying a similar meaning.

Are "unexpected consequences" always negative?

While often used in a negative context, "unexpected consequences" can be positive or neutral. It simply indicates that the outcome was not initially predicted, regardless of whether it's beneficial or detrimental. An example could be: "The experiment had "unexpected consequences", leading to a major scientific breakthrough."

What's the difference between "unexpected consequences" and "side effects"?

"Side effects" typically refer to secondary, often negative, effects that are known possibilities associated with a particular action or treatment. "Unexpected consequences", on the other hand, are outcomes that were not foreseen or considered as potential results.