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How to Say "consequences" in Spanish

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consecuencias

kon-seh-KWEN-see-as/konseˈkwensjas/

nounB1general
Use 'consecuencias' when referring to the direct results or effects of a specific action, often implying a cause-and-effect relationship.
A simple illustration showing a red domino tipping over and making contact with a blue domino, symbolizing cause and effect or a chain reaction.

Examples

Todas nuestras decisiones tienen consecuencias, buenas o malas.

All our decisions have consequences, good or bad.

Las consecuencias del incendio fueron devastadoras para el bosque.

The consequences of the fire were devastating for the forest.

Si no estudias, tendrás que enfrentar las consecuencias en el examen.

If you don't study, you will have to face the consequences on the exam.

Always Plural in Context

Even though 'consecuencia' (singular) exists, this word is very often used in its plural form ('consecuencias') when discussing the overall outcome of an event.

Feminine Noun

Remember that 'consecuencias' is a feminine noun, so you use feminine words with it: 'las consecuencias' (the consequences), 'algunas consecuencias' (some consequences).

Gender Confusion

Mistake: “Los consecuencias (using masculine article)”

Correction: Las consecuencias. The word ends in -a, and it is feminine. Think of 'la consecuencia' (the consequence).

efectos

eh-FEK-tohs/eˈfektos/

nounA2general
Use 'efectos' to describe the outcomes or impacts of something, particularly when focusing on the physical or observable results, like the effects of medicine or a substance.
A tiny brown seed lying on the ground next to a massive, brightly colored green tree that grew from it, illustrating cause and effect.

Examples

Los efectos del café me duran todo el día.

The effects of the coffee last me all day.

Estudiaron los efectos del cambio climático en la costa.

They studied the effects of climate change on the coast.

La decisión tendrá efectos importantes en el futuro de la empresa.

The decision will have important effects on the future of the company.

Masculine Plural Noun

Remember that 'efecto' is a masculine word, so it always takes the masculine plural article 'los' (los efectos) and masculine plural adjectives.

Confusing 'efectos' and 'afectos'

Mistake: “Using 'afectos' when you mean 'results'.”

Correction: 'Afectos' means 'affections' or 'feelings'. Use 'efectos' for consequences or results.

productos

proh-DOOK-tohs/pɾoˈðukt̪os/

nounB1general
Use 'productos' when referring to the results or findings of a process, investigation, or creative endeavor, emphasizing what has been produced or achieved.
A single, perfectly formed, ripe red apple hanging from a green branch, symbolizing the successful result or outcome of a process.

Examples

Los productos de la investigación fueron sorprendentes.

The results of the investigation were surprising.

Esos errores son los productos de una mala planificación.

Those mistakes are the consequences of poor planning.

El producto de su esfuerzo se notó en sus notas.

The result of his effort was noticeable in his grades. (Note: often used in singular 'producto' for this meaning)

Figurative Use

In this context, 'productos' acts like 'results' or 'outcomes.' It often follows a preposition like 'de' (of) to show what caused the result: 'los productos de la lluvia' (the results of the rain).

Choosing Between 'Consecuencias' and 'Efectos'

Learners often confuse 'consecuencias' and 'efectos'. Remember that 'consecuencias' usually implies a moral or logical outcome of an action, while 'efectos' is broader and can refer to any outcome, especially physical ones. Think 'consequence' for actions and 'effect' for general outcomes.

Related Translations

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