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ensue

verb

/ɪnˈsu/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ensue

To happen or occur as a consequence or result of a preceding event or situation.
"If we don't address the underlying issue, further complications will ensue."

Detailed meaning of ensue

When something ensues, it means it follows or takes place naturally or logically after something else has occurred. This term is often used to describe the sequence of events or actions that follow a particular incident or circumstance. For example, if a heated argument ensues between two individuals, it suggests that the argument arises as a direct outcome of a preceding disagreement or tension. "Ensue" is commonly employed to highlight the cause-and-effect relationship between events, indicating that one event follows another in a predictable or logical sequence.

Example sentences containing ensue

1. After the thunder rumbled, a downpour ensued, soaking everything in its path.
2. Their heated argument caused a tense silence to ensue in the room.
3. When the chef quit, chaos ensued in the kitchen during dinner service.
4. The unexpected delay at the airport led to frustration among the passengers, and confusion ensued.
5. As the news of the accident spread, a sense of unease ensued throughout the neighborhood.
6. Following the controversial decision, protests ensued in the city streets.

History and etymology of ensue

The verb 'ensue' has its origins in Middle English, where it was derived from the Old French word 'ensuivre,' which, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin word 'insequi.' The Latin 'insequi' is a combination of 'in' (meaning 'in' or 'upon') and 'sequi' (meaning 'to follow'). Therefore, the etymology of 'ensue' reflects its essence as an action that follows or comes after another event or situation. It embodies the idea of consequence, signifying that something happens or occurs as a result of what came before it. In modern English, 'ensue' continues to convey this sense of events unfolding in succession, often as a natural or logical outcome of previous circumstances.

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Further usage examples of ensue

1. The power outage caused a series of problems to ensue in the office.
2. When the fire alarm went off, panic ensued as people rushed for the exits.
3. After the company's bankruptcy announcement, layoffs and uncertainty ensued.
4. The referee's questionable call on the field made chaos ensue among the players and fans.
5. A chain reaction of events ensued after the CEO's sudden resignation, affecting the entire organization.
6. After the power outage, chaos will ensue in the city.
7. If we don't address the issue, more problems will ensue.
8. Once the announcement is made, a heated debate will ensue.
9. Failure to follow the instructions will ensue in a penalty.
10. As tensions rise, conflict may ensue between the two parties.
11. If we don't take immediate action, disaster will ensue.
12. After the initial shock, a wave of panic will ensue.
13. Should we choose to ignore the warning signs, dire consequences will ensue.
14. Once the truth is revealed, a sense of betrayal will ensue.
15. If we don't find a compromise, a lengthy legal battle may ensue.
16. The heavy rain will ensue flooding in low-lying areas.
17. If we don't find a solution, a state of confusion will ensue.
18. Once the competition begins, a fierce rivalry will ensue.
19. If we don't control the situation, mayhem will ensue.
20. Failure to meet the deadline will ensue in project delays.
21. After the first goal, a wave of excitement will ensue among the fans.
22. Once the news spreads, widespread panic will ensue.
23. After the controversial decision, a storm of criticism will ensue.
24. Should we continue on this path, irreversible damage will ensue.