Subsequently vs. Consequently — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 13, 2023
Subsequently refers to the order in time, meaning “following in time or order.” Example: He arrived late; subsequently, we ate dinner. Consequently relates to causality, meaning “as a result of.” Example: He was late; consequently, we ate without him.
Difference Between Subsequently and Consequently
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
In exploring the meanings and nuances of "Subsequently" and "Consequently," we unravel varied facets of English language usage. Subsequently refers to the order of events in time or sequence without implying any causational relationship between them. Conversely, Consequently demonstrates a cause-and-effect relationship between two events or actions, indicating a logical outcome or result.
Dwelling deeper, "Subsequently" implies that an event follows another event in time, not because of it. It doesn’t reveal any reason behind the sequence; it merely states it. On the other side, "Consequently" not only establishes a sequence but specifically implies that the subsequent event occurred as a direct result of the preceding event.
Taking an illustrative approach, consider: "The rain stopped; subsequently, we went out." This statement doesn’t imply the outing was due to the rain stopping. Whereas, "It rained; consequently, we stayed in." conveys that the staying in was a result of the rain, showcasing causality.
Utilizing them appropriately in writings, "Subsequently" often fits into narratives or descriptions of sequences without inherent cause-and-effect relationships. "Consequently," however, provides a pivotal role in arguments or discussions where cause and effect is a principal or persuasive element, creating a logical linkage among events.
Accentuating on clarity, “Subsequently” is suitable when the writer wants to avoid suggesting a causal relationship. Contrastingly, “Consequently” should be the choice when the intention is to explicitly communicate a direct cause-effect relationship between the two instances.
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Comparison Chart
Meaning
Following in time or order.
As a result of something.
Implies causality?
No
Yes
Usage
To show sequence.
To show cause and effect.
Example
She graduated; subsequently, she traveled.
She was late; consequently, she missed the bus.
Function in Sentence
Temporal transition
Logical transition
Compare with Definitions
Subsequently
Subsequently indicates a following event.
She spoke to the manager; subsequently, she felt better.
Consequently
Implies a result due to a prior action.
It rained; consequently, the game was canceled.
Subsequently
It serves as a temporal connector.
He locked the door; subsequently, the meeting started.
Consequently
Suggests a cause-and-effect relationship.
She studied hard; consequently, she passed.
Subsequently
Points to what happens next, not because of the prior event.
She smiled; subsequently, it started raining.
Consequently
Consequently indicates result or outcome.
He overslept; consequently, he was late.
Subsequently
Indicates the succeeding event or action.
He left the store; subsequently, he drove home.
Consequently
As a result; therefore.
Subsequently
It represents a temporal sequence without causality.
The meeting ended; subsequently, they had lunch.
Consequently
(conjunctive) As a result or consequence of something; subsequently.
He didn't wake up early. Consequently, he was late to work.
Subsequently
Following in time or order; succeeding.
Consequently
Subsequently, following after in time or sequence.
Subsequently
Following, afterwards in either time or place.
Consequently
By consequence; by natural or logical sequence or connection.
Subsequently
Accordingly, therefore (implying a logical connection or deduction), consequently.
Consequently
(sentence connectors) because of the reason given;
Consequently, he didn't do it
Continued to have severe headaches and accordingly returned to the doctor
Subsequently
At a later time; afterwards.
Consequently
As a consequence;
He had good reason to be grateful for the opportunities which they had made available to him and which consequently led to the good position he now held
Subsequently
Happening at a time subsequent to a reference time;
He apologized subsequently
He's going to the store but he'll be back here later
It didn't happen until afterward
Two hours after that
Consequently
Used to describe a logical outcome.
He forgot his umbrella; consequently, he got wet.
Consequently
Points towards a resulting event.
She didn’t call; consequently, they were worried.
Common Curiosities
How does "Consequently" relate to causality?
It indicates a cause-and-effect relationship.
Can "Subsequently" and "Consequently" be used interchangeably?
No, due to different implications regarding causality.
Does "Subsequently" establish a reason for the next event?
No, it just denotes the following event or action.
What does "Subsequently" imply?
A following event in time, without causality.
How is "Subsequently" used in a sentence?
To indicate the next event without showing causation.
When is "Consequently" appropriately used?
To demonstrate that one event is the result of another.
Is "Subsequently" focused on logical outcomes?
No, it merely indicates a following event or action.
Can "Consequently" indicate temporal sequence without causality?
No, it inherently implies cause and effect.
How does "Subsequently" enhance narratives?
By indicating order or sequence of events.
Why use "Consequently" in argumentative writing?
To logically link cause and effect, strengthening the argument.
In what context is "Consequently" typically used?
Where showing a direct relationship between cause and effect is pivotal.
Can "Consequently" imply an unrelated sequence of events?
No, it inherently demonstrates resultant relationships.
Can "Subsequently" illustrate a consequence?
No, it does not convey consequences or results.
Is "Subsequently" used to show the effect of an action?
No, it indicates what happened next without implying causality.
Does "Consequently" reflect a mere sequence of actions?
No, it reflects a sequence with a causational link.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
