A repercussion means a consequence or effect that happens as a result of an action, especially an unintended or unwanted one. When you hear that something will have repercussions, it usually means there will be negative results that follow.

If a student breaks the rules during a test and gets caught, the repercussions might include failing the test, losing the teacher’s trust, and facing detention. If a company pollutes a river, the repercussions could include fines, lawsuits, and damage to the environment that affects people and animals for years.

Repercussions can be immediate or delayed. Breaking a promise might have instant repercussions when your friend gets upset, but it might also have longer-lasting repercussions if that friend stops trusting you over time. While consequences can be positive or negative, repercussions almost always refers to the negative outcomes that follow a poor decision or harmful action.