To ensue means to happen afterward as a result or consequence of something else. When a fire alarm goes off during class, chaos often ensues as students grab their belongings and head for the exits. When two soccer teams argue over a referee's call, a heated discussion might ensue.

The word suggests a natural unfolding of events, like dominoes falling one after another. If you accidentally knock over a tower of blocks your little brother spent an hour building, tears will probably ensue. If a teacher announces a surprise pizza party, celebration and excitement will ensue.

Notice that ensue doesn't just mean “happen next.” It means something follows because of what came before. When a blizzard hits your town, school closures typically ensue. When your dog spots a squirrel in the backyard, a wild chase ensues.

Writers often use ensuing to describe what comes after: “In the ensuing weeks after the science fair, the winning team worked on their project for the state competition.” Think of ensue as the word that connects cause to effect, showing how one event naturally leads to another.