English vocabulary · C1
Ensue
/ɪnˈsuː/ · v.
When one event causes another to ensue, the second event happens afterward, often as a direct result of what came first.
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Example sentences
- A heated argument ensued after the vote.
- Power failed, and confusion quickly ensued.
Word origin and roots
from Anglo-French
- ensivre — follow (from Anglo-French)
Synonyms and nuances
- FOLLOW — come after something (Come After Something)
- RESULT — happen because of something (Happen Because Of Something)
- ARISE — begin from a situation (Begin From A Situation)
Similar words
- follow
- result
- arise
- occur
- develop
Lesson notes
When one event causes another to ensue, the second event happens afterward, often as a direct result of what came first.
Related: follow, result, arise. Use ensue when an event happens after another event, especially as a consequence.
A heated argument ensued after the vote. Power failed, and confusion quickly ensued.
From Anglo-French. Ensivre means follow. Anglo-French ensivre became English ensue. When one event follows another as a result, it ensues.