Consequential

Adjective

Definition: Following as a result or consequence.

Synonyms: Resultant, Resultant, Ensuing

Antonyms: Insignificant, Unimportant

Examples:

The decision she made had a consequential impact on her career.
The loss of key players was consequential for the team's chances of winning.

Mnemonics:

"Consequential" can be broken down into "consequence" + "al." The "al" at the end can be associated with "always," which implies something that always follows as a result.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "consequential" originated from the Latin word "consequens" (present participle of "consequi"), meaning "to follow after." It was first recorded in English in the early 17th century.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used consistently with its current meaning since its introduction in English.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Consequential thinking"

Explanation:

Refers to the ability or habit of considering the potential outcomes or consequences of one's actions before making a decision.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "consequential" with "consequentialist."

Explanation:

While "consequential" relates to something that follows as a result or consequence, "consequentialist" refers to the ethical theory that states the morality of an action is determined by its consequences. These two terms have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.