unforeseen consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unforeseen consequence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an outcome or result that was not anticipated or predicted. Example: "The new policy led to an unforeseen consequence that affected employee morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

One unforeseen consequence is the effect on people's finances.

The Guardian

Gaughan said an unforeseen consequence of issuing control orders was the opportunity to rehabilitate people.

The Guardian

This go-it-alone move in Scotland is another unforeseen consequence of the Leveson report.

The Guardian

Spencer Wells is the author of Pandora's Seed: The Unforeseen Consequence of Civilization (Allen Lane, £20).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"What has been said there has had, I think, an unforeseen consequence, perhaps".

The New York Times

Mr. McGurn said that the prospect of employees being forced into bankruptcy is an unforeseen consequence of the option boom.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Yet, there were unforeseen consequences.

The New York Times - Sports

Its collapse had unforeseen consequences.

The Guardian - Film

Still, there have been some unforeseen consequences.

The New York Times

I just think there are unforeseen consequences.

Independent

Increased potency may be having unforeseen consequences.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unforeseen consequence", clearly establish the action or event that led to the unexpected result to provide context.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because an event followed another, it was necessarily a "unforeseen consequence". Ensure a clear causal link exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unforeseen consequence" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a result or effect that was not anticipated or predicted. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unforeseen consequence" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe unexpected outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, and is considered to have a neutral register. When using this phrase, it's important to establish a clear causal link to avoid misinterpretations. Consider alternatives like "unintended outcome" or "unexpected result" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unintended outcome

This alternative focuses on the lack of intention behind the result, similar to "unforeseen consequence".

unexpected result

This phrase emphasizes the surprise element of the outcome, aligning with the meaning of "unforeseen consequence".

unanticipated effect

This option highlights the lack of anticipation surrounding the effect, akin to "unforeseen consequence".

unpredicted ramification

This alternative uses a more formal term for consequence and underscores the absence of prediction.

surprise fallout

This option uses a more casual term for consequence and emphasizes the element of surprise.

collateral effect

This alternative is particularly useful when talking about a secondary consequence

ancillary result

This alternative focuses on the result being secondary or supplementary.

byproduct effect

This alternative highlight how the consequence it is a side effect of something else.

knock-on impact

This option implies a cascading effect stemming from an initial action.

serendipitous outcome

This alternative suggests a positive, accidental outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "unforeseen consequence" in a sentence?

Use "unforeseen consequence" to describe an outcome that was not anticipated. For example, "The new policy had an "unforeseen consequence": a decline in employee morale."

What are some alternatives to "unforeseen consequence"?

Alternatives include "unintended outcome", "unexpected result", or "unanticipated effect". Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

Is it better to say "unforeseen consequence" or "unintended consequence"?

Both phrases are valid, but "unforeseen consequence" emphasizes the lack of foresight, while "unintended consequence" stresses the lack of intention. The better choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between a "consequence" and an "unforeseen consequence"?

A "consequence" is a general result or effect, while an "unforeseen consequence" is a result that was not predicted or expected. The latter implies an element of surprise or lack of planning.