Etymology From Middle English consequence, from Old French consequence, from Latin consequentia. While analysable as con- + sequence, its adjective form has a different origin.
1
An effect; something that follows a cause as a result.
The lobule margins, furthermore, are arched away from the lobe, with the consequence that (when fully inflated) the abaxial leaf surface forms the interior lining of the lobule.1992, Rudolf M[athias] Schuster, The Hepaticae and Anthocerotae of North America: East of the Hundredth Meridian, volume V, Chicago, Ill.: Field Museum of Natural History, →ISBN, page 7:
2
An unwanted or unpleasant effect.
I'm warning you. If you don't get me the report on time, there will be consequences.
Nevertheless, it is clear that the global energy demand for air-conditioning will grow substantially as nations become more affluent, with the consequences of climate change potentially accelerating the demand.2013 September-October, Michael Sivak, “Will AC Put a Chill on the Global Energy Supply?”, in American Scientist:
3
consecution; chain of causes and effects.
4
conclusion, deduction or inference; the thing concluded.
5
Importance, influence, or significance.
Especially when preceded by "of"
My opinions are of no consequence whatsoever to my parents.
Thus young Pen, the only son of an estated country gentleman, with a good allowance, and a gentlemanlike bearing and person, looked to be a lad of much more consequence than he was really; and was held by the Oxbridge authorities, tradesmen, and undergraduates, as quite a young buck and member of the aristocracy.1848 November – 1850 December, William Makepeace Thackeray, chapter 19, in The History of Pendennis. […], volume (please specify |volume=I or II), London: Bradbury and Evans, […], published 1849–1850, →OCLC:
1 more example
Rooney's United team-mate Chris Smalling was given his debut at right-back and was able to adjust to the international stage in relatively relaxed fashion as Bulgaria barely posed a threat of any consequence.2011 September 2, Phil McNulty, “Bulgaria 0-3 England”, in BBC:
Etymology From Middle English consequence, from Old French consequence, from Latin consequentia. While analysable as con- + sequence, its adjective form has a different origin.
1
To threaten or punish (a child, etc.) with specific consequences for misbehaviour.
The goal of consequencing is to teach the child a lesson that leads to positive choices and behaviors. The goal of punishment is to inflict pain and seek revenge. Angry parenting is punitive and ineffectual.1998, Terry M. Levy, Michael Orlans, Attachment, trauma, and healing:
These behaviours are not acceptable within a classroom setting and often result in the child being consequenced or removed from class.2001, Betty Bedard-Bidwell, Hand in Hand, page 117: