consequential
adjective
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Consequential dates from the 17th century and can be traced back to the Latin verb consequi, meaning "to follow along." Consequi, in turn, combines the prefix con-, meaning "through" or "with," and sequi, meaning "to follow." The English words sequel, second, and suitor are among the offspring of sequi. Henry Fielding's 1728 comedy Love in Several Masques introduced the meaning of "important" to consequential, which had until that point been used primarily in the context of results. Evidence for this usage declined temporarily in the 19th century, causing its acceptability to be questioned by such commentators as H. W. Fowler; it resurfaced in the 20th century, however, and is now considered standard.
Examples of consequential in a Sentence
Greg Carannante, Sun Sentinel, 4 Jan. 2026
On Saturday, the consequential doctrine of America’s fifth president was cited by the 47th president as partial justification for the capture of a foreign leader to face criminal charges in the United States.
—Meg Kinnard, Fortune, 4 Jan. 2026
The holiday season is a perfect time to look back, reflect and remember the consequential moments of the past year.
—Daniel Depetris, Twin Cities, 4 Jan. 2026
One of the most consequential takeaways is to never, ever underestimate China.
—Shuli Ren, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for consequential
Cite this Entry
“Consequential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consequential. Accessed 6 Jan. 2026.
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consequential
adjective
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consequential
adjective
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