Outcome
ˈaʊtkʌm
Definitions
The final result of a process, event, or situation; a consequence.
ˈaʊtkʌm
The result or consequence of an action or event.
The outcome of the experiment was unexpected.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game. The outcome is whether you win or lose. It's what happens in the end!
👶 For kids: What happens at the end of something.
More Examples
We are hopeful about the outcome of the negotiations.
The outcome of the game will decide who goes to the finals.
How It's Used
"The outcome of the election was a surprise."
"Researchers are studying the long-term outcomes of the new treatment."
"The company is waiting to see the outcome of the merger."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
favorable outcome
A positive or desired result.
"The team was hoping for a favorable outcome after the surgery."
negative outcome
An undesirable or bad result.
"The company was concerned about a negative outcome from the marketing campaign."
predict the outcome
To estimate or guess the result of an event.
"It's difficult to predict the outcome of the election, the polls show inconsistent results."
From Middle English *utcome*, from Old English *ūt- + cuman* ('to come out').
The word 'outcome' has been in use since the 17th century, initially referring to the act of going out or coming forth, but later evolving to mean the result of an action or event.
Memory tip
Think of 'out' as the end, and 'come' as arriving. So 'outcome' is what arrives at the end.
Word Origin
"to come"