untoward consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "untoward consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts when you want to refer to negative or unexpected results or outcomes of an action, event, or situation. For example: "Arthur's decision to quit his job had some untoward consequences that he was not expecting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Honorable acts can have untoward consequences.

The New York Times - Magazine

To get out from Iraq now may have untoward consequences, but if not now, when?

The New York Times

"Like any other piece of equipment, their misuse can have serious and untoward consequences.

The New York Times

But even as it gains momentum, the initiative may be having untoward consequences.

The New York Times

Then there are the untoward consequences of righteously following the law and penalising the law-breakers.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the midst of a slew of Westminster and media comment, the BBC has tried to argue that full disclosure would have untoward consequences.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

The second untoward consequence of the BBC's expanded channel line up was to make the BBC look simply too big and flush with cash – the more so at a time when commercial competitors had been so slow off the digital mark and then found themselves in the worst advertising recession anyone could remember.

The Guardian

Since we typically think of mathematics as necessary, however, this is an untoward consequence for a philosophy of mathematics.

SEP

According to Larry Laudan (1983, 121), it "has the untoward consequence of countenancing as 'scientific' every crank claim which makes ascertainably false assertions".

SEP

As with earlier problems concerning the role of existential quantification in supervaluationism, one can debate whether this is a consequence to be embraced or an untoward consequence undermining the theory being advanced.

SEP

But, on plausible assumptions, it still has the untoward consequence that the meta-ontologist cannot herself assert that a theory is ontologically committed to a kind K without being committed to kinds.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "untoward consequences" when you want to emphasize that the negative results were unexpected or inappropriate, stemming from an action or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "untoward consequences" interchangeably with any negative outcome. "Untoward" implies something more than just bad; it suggests impropriety or unexpectedness in addition to the negativity. Consider whether this additional layer of meaning is truly applicable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "untoward consequences" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies and describes negative results that are unexpected or inappropriate. As Ludwig AI explains, it's grammatically sound for written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

6%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "untoward consequences" is a grammatically correct and relatively common phrase used to describe unexpected or inappropriate negative outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English. It appears most frequently in news, scientific, and formal contexts, emphasizing the unforeseen or improper nature of the results. When using this phrase, ensure that the negative outcomes are not only bad but also carry an element of surprise or impropriety. Consider alternatives such as "adverse effects" or "negative repercussions" if the primary focus is simply on the negativity without the added nuance of unexpectedness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adverse effects

Focuses more directly on the negative impact, often in a medical or scientific context.

negative repercussions

Emphasizes the impact as a result or reaction to an action.

undesirable outcomes

Highlights the lack of preference for the results.

unforeseen problems

Stresses the unexpected nature of the difficulties that arise.

unfortunate results

Indicates a sense of disappointment or regret about the outcomes.

ill effects

Similar to adverse effects, but can also refer to moral or societal impact.

detrimental impacts

Highlights the damaging or harmful nature of the consequences.

negative outcomes

Broader term for results that are unfavorable.

unintended consequences

Highlights the lack of intention behind the outcomes, suggesting they were unplanned.

bad side effects

Often used in the context of medication or treatments to denote negative effects.

FAQs

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

You can use "untoward consequences" to describe unexpected negative outcomes resulting from an action or event. For example, "The policy change had several "unintended consequences", including "untoward consequences" for small businesses".

What phrases are similar to "untoward consequences"?

Similar phrases include "adverse effects", "negative repercussions", and "undesirable outcomes". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "untoward consequences" and "negative consequences"?

"Untoward consequences" suggests that the negative results were not only bad but also unexpected, inappropriate, or improper. "Negative consequences" is a more general term for unfavorable results, without necessarily implying surprise or impropriety.

Is it appropriate to use "untoward consequences" in formal writing?

Yes, "untoward consequences" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to highlight the unexpected or inappropriate nature of the negative results. The phrase is frequently used in news, academic, and scientific contexts.