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consequence

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pay the consequences

To face, accept, or suffer repercussions for one's actions or words, especially that which would be expected to incur punishment. (A less common version of "suffer the consequences.") After three nights of heavy drinking, I'm really going to be paying the consequences come Monday morning! With the judge handing down the maximum possible sentence, this monster will be paying the consequences for his crimes for the rest of his life.

See also: consequence, pay

in consequence (of something)

as a result of something; because of something. In consequence of the storm, there was no electricity. The wind blew down the wires. In consequence, we had no electricity.

See also: consequence

face the consequences

to deal with the results of something you have said or done The law should force this man to face the consequences of running out on his family.

See also: consequence, face

suffer the consequences

to experience the effects of something you have said or done The witness decided to tell the truth and suffer the consequences.

Usage notes: sometimes used in the form take the consequences: Sometimes we have to take the consequences for our beliefs.

See also: consequence, suffer

in consequence

As a result, therefore, as in She was away for years and in consequence has few friends here. The prepositional phrase in consequence of means "as a result of," as in In consequence of this finding, there is sure to be further investigation. [Late 1600s]

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of consequence

Important, as in For all matters of consequence we have to consult the board, or Only scientists of consequence have been invited to speak. This idiom was first recorded in 1489.

See also: consequence, of

in consequence

As a result; consequently.

See also: consequence