Consequence vs That's your punishment

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Consequence

Top 2,000 (common)B1noun

That's your punishment

Top 2,000 (common)
 ConsequenceThat's your punishment
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/ˈkɒnsɪkwəns/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈkɑːnsɪkwens/"]/🇬🇧 //ðæts jɔːr ˈpʌnɪʃmənt//🇺🇸 //ðæts jɔːr ˈpʌnɪʃmənt//
MeaningThe result of an action or decision.A consequence for doing something wrong.
ExampleThe consequence of neglecting your studies can be severe.If you break the rules again, that's your punishment.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR levelB1-
Part of speechnoun
Collocationslegal consequences, social consequences, serious consequences, immediate consequence, long-term consequenceface a punishment, impose a punishment, serve a punishment
Antonymscause, origin-
Common mistakesUsing 'consequence' in a positive context when it usually indicates a negative outcome., Confusing it with 'consequential', which refers to something that follows as a result., Misplacing 'consequence' in a sentence, leading to awkward or unclear phrasing.Using 'punishment' as a verb instead of a noun., Confusing it with 'penalty' which may imply a more formal consequence., Using the phrase sarcastically in serious situations.
Usage notesUsed in both spoken and written contexts. Suitable for discussing outcomes in everyday situations, academic discussions, and formal writing. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing important decisions.Commonly used in conversations about discipline or consequences. Avoid using it in formal contexts.

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That's your punishment

Frequently asked questions: Consequence vs That's your punishment

What's the difference between Consequence and That's your punishment?

Consequence: The result of an action or decision. That's your punishment: A consequence for doing something wrong.

Can you show an example of each?

Consequence: The consequence of neglecting your studies can be severe. That's your punishment: If you break the rules again, that's your punishment.

Can I use Consequence and That's your punishment interchangeably?

Not always. Consequence and That's your punishment are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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