repercussion
What does "repercussion" mean?
A repercussion is an unintended, often negative consequence or "ripple effect" that follows a specific event or action. Think of it like a stone dropped into a calm pond; the initial splash is the action, but the waves that spread outward and disturb the water are the repercussions. It is almost exclusively used to describe undesirable results that occur long after the initial event. You will often hear it used in professional or serious contexts, such as politics or legal matters, where people warn others about the "serious repercussions" of their behavior.
"repercussion" in conversation
Office warning
If you leak these documents, the legal repercussions will be severe.
If you leak these documents, the legal repercussions will be severe.
I understand, I won't do it.
I understand, I won't do it.
Used here to warn of a formal, negative outcome.
Discussing a policy change
Do you think the new tax law will have major repercussions for small businesses?
Do you think the new tax law will have major repercussions for small businesses?
Definitely. It’s going to make things much harder for them.
Definitely. It’s going to make things much harder for them.
Highlights the 'ripple effect' nature of the word.
"repercussion" in a sentence
The decision had negative repercussions for the team.
The decision had negative repercussions for the team.
He didn't fully consider the long-term repercussions of his resignation.
He didn't fully consider the long-term repercussions of his resignation.
The geopolitical repercussions of the treaty were felt across the entire continent for decades.
The geopolitical repercussions of the treaty were felt across the entire continent for decades.
