B2adverb3K

Consequently

UK /["/ˈkɒnsɪkwəntli/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːnsɪkwentli/"]/

Definition

as a result; therefore

In simple words: As a result or effect of something.

Examples

  • This poses a threat to agriculture and the food chain, and consequently to human health.
  • She failed her exams and was consequently unable to start her studies at college.

Usage notes

Use 'consequently' to show a direct result of something previously mentioned. It's suitable for writing and formal speech, but less common in everyday conversations.

Grammar pattern

consequently + clause

Memory hint

Think of a 'consequent' action, like a domino falling — one action leads to another.

Collocations

  • consequently, the outcome
  • consequently, we decided
  • used consequently in a sentence
  • consequently, it appears
  • the plan failed; consequently

Synonyms

  • therefore
  • as a result
  • thus
  • hence
  • accordingly

Antonyms

  • inconsequently
  • independently
  • unrelatedly

Common mistakes

  • Using 'consequently' in informal spoken English too often.
  • Confusing 'consequently' with 'consequent' — the former is an adverb, the latter is an adjective.
  • Placing 'consequently' at the beginning of a sentence without a clear prior context.