whatever the consequences may be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "whatever the consequences may be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or decisions taken without regard for the potential outcomes or repercussions. Example: "I will pursue my dreams, whatever the consequences may be."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And the other items are not expectations-based at all; the Fed can just buy MBS and stuff the banks with reserve, and that's a fact, whatever the consequences may be.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The consequences may be irreversible.

The New York Times

No, for the consequences may be profound.

The Economist

The consequences may be dire.

TechCrunch

For companies, the consequences may be magnified.

TechCrunch

Nobody in the nation's capital is flipping a wig over the SEC's enforcement record, whatever the eventual consequences may be.

Huffington Post

The political consequences may be dangerous.

The New York Times

Those consequences may be true in the short term.

TechCrunch

And these consequences may be very serious".

Vice

"And whatever the consequences are, we're going to have to deal with it.

The Guardian

Whatever the case may be, friends.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "whatever the consequences may be" when you want to convey a sense of determination and acceptance of potential outcomes, both positive and negative. It indicates a commitment to a course of action regardless of what might happen.

Common error

While "whatever the consequences may be" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for alternatives like "regardless of the outcome" or "irrespective of the results" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial phrase: "Whatever the consequences may be" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates a condition under which an action is performed or a decision is made, regardless of what might happen. Ludwig shows examples of this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "whatever the consequences may be" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to express a willingness to accept the results of an action, irrespective of the potential outcomes. As Ludwig confirms, its usage spans various contexts but is most common in news and media. While it carries a neutral tone suitable for diverse settings, it's essential to consider the level of formality and choose appropriate alternatives for highly formal or technical writing. To sum up, this phrase is a powerful way to indicate resolve and acceptance in the face of uncertainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no matter what happens

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the same sentiment, suitable for informal contexts.

regardless of what might ensue

Emphasizes potential future outcomes, using more formal language.

irrespective of the repercussions

Uses a more formal and emphatic tone, highlighting a lack of concern for possible negative effects.

no matter the eventual fallout

Highlights potential negative repercussions with a stronger, more dramatic tone.

without considering the repercussions

Focuses on the act of not thinking about the consequences, rather than accepting them.

even if it leads to dire results

Specifically highlights potential negative results, creating a sense of foreboding.

come what may

Expresses a sense of resignation and acceptance of whatever happens, often used in more dramatic or literary contexts.

at any cost

Implies a willingness to endure significant negative outcomes to achieve a specific goal, suggesting a high level of commitment.

risking everything

Emphasizes the potential for significant loss or danger, highlighting the boldness of the action.

accepting all liabilities

Highlights the willingness to endure any legal or financial responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "whatever the consequences may be" in a sentence?

You can use "whatever the consequences may be" to indicate a willingness to accept the results of an action, such as: "I've made my decision, and I'm sticking with it, "whatever the consequences may be"".

What's a less formal alternative to "whatever the consequences may be"?

In informal settings, you could say "no matter what happens" or "come what may" instead of "whatever the consequences may be".

Is "whatever the consequence is" grammatically correct?

While "whatever the consequence is" is grammatically sound, ""whatever the consequences may be"" is a more common and idiomatic expression, especially when referring to multiple potential outcomes.

How does "whatever the consequences may be" differ from "regardless of the consequences"?

"Whatever the consequences may be" carries a slightly more fatalistic or accepting tone, while "regardless of the consequences" emphasizes a conscious decision to ignore potential outcomes.