repercussion
Definitions
An indirect and usually unwelcome consequence of an action or event (usually plural)
（通常为复数）（间接的、多为不良的）影响，后果，反响
An echo or recoil; a striking back (literal, formal/technical)
回响；反弹；回击（字面义，正式／专业用法）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedre- (back) + per- (through) + cuss (from quatere, strike) + -ion = a blow that strikes back through. It started physical — an echo or recoil bouncing back — then drifted abstract: the return blow of an action, the consequences that rebound on you later. You do something, and it strikes back.
Root cuss still carries 6 more wordsWhy It Means This
Think of an echo coming back at you — that is the literal repercussion, a sound or shock striking back. The modern meaning keeps the rebound but turns it into consequences: the after-effects of an action that come bouncing back, usually bad ones. Almost always used in the plural.
Usage Guide
Almost always plural and almost always negative: "have / face / suffer repercussions," "serious / far-reaching / wider repercussions." The literal "echo/recoil" sense is rare and confined to technical or formal writing.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The decision had serious repercussions for the whole industry.
- 2.
Cutting the budget could have political repercussions.
- 3.
We are still feeling the repercussions of last year's crisis.
Easily Confused
repercussion vs consequence — both mean a result, but consequence is neutral and direct (the consequence of your choice), while repercussions are indirect, delayed, ripple-like, and usually negative. A direct result → consequence; rebounding side-effects → repercussions.