Repercussion

Definition

Repercussion refers to an unintended consequence or effect of an action or event, often one that is indirect, widespread, or unforeseen. Its plural form is repercussions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˌri.pɚˈkʌʃ.ən/, /ˌrɛp.ɚˈkʌʃ.ən/
• Respelling: rep-er-KUH-shun

British English

• IPA: /ˌɹiː.pəˈkʌʃ.ən/
• Respelling: ree-puh-KUH-shun

Etymology

Late Middle English (1375–1425), via Middle French répercussion from Latin repercussiō “a rebounding, striking back,” from re- “back” + percutere “to strike through.”

Derivatives

• repercuss (verb)
• repercussive (adjective)
• repercussively (adverb)

Synonyms

• consequence
• outcome
• effect
• impact
• fallout

Antonyms

• cause

Usage

The company’s decision to downsize had serious repercussions for employee morale.

Environmental repercussions of the oil spill were felt for decades.

Related Terms

• Consequence: A result or effect of an action.
• Aftermath: The period or consequences following an event.
• Fallout: Unintended adverse effects or consequences.
• Ramification: A complex or unwelcome consequence.
• Impact: A strong effect or impression resulting from an action or event.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A result or effect of some prior action or event, often indirect or unforeseen – an effect that occurs as a consequence of an earlier action, not always immediately apparent.
  • Example: "The new trade agreement had unexpected repercussions on local farmers."
• A reverberation or echoing effect, especially of sound or shock – a repeating or lingering impact following a forceful event.
  • Example: "The explosion’s repercussion rattled windows miles away."
• The far-reaching significance or implications of something – the broader consequences or importance of an event or decision.
  • Example: "The social repercussions of the policy change are still being evaluated."