Words / C1

ram-if-i-KAYSHUN/ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/

A ramification is a knock-on consequence, often complicated and not obvious at first: the ramifications of the change. Consequence is everyday; implication can be more logical than practical. Almost always plural in this sense: ramifications. It belongs in policy and essays; in speech, knock-on effects or what it leads to is clearer.

Meaning

A complicated result of an action, often one that is not obvious at first.

Examples

• “They did not consider the ramifications of the change.”
• “They celebrated the cut without seeing the ramifications for safety.”
• “Legal ramifications kept the film in the archive for years.”

Good to know

Usually plural: ramifications of…. Knock-on, not always obvious. Everyday: consequences / knock-on effects.

Near in meaning

consequence

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