后果

• Pinyin: hòu guǒ
• Hanzi breakdown: 后 = simplified form of 後, meaning behind/after; 果 = pictograph of fruit on a tree

Meaning

Consequence; result of an action, usually negative. Refers to the outcome or aftermath of a decision or behaviour.

Almost always carries a negative connotation, referring to undesirable outcomes. It is commonly used in warnings, advice, and discussions about responsibility. Unlike 结果 (result), which is neutral, 后果 implies something bad happened or could happen.

Examples

1. 你应该想一想这样做的后果。 You should think about the consequences of doing this.
2. 不注意安全会有严重的后果。 Not paying attention to safety will lead to serious consequences.
3. 他没有考虑后果就做了决定。 He made a decision without considering the consequences.

Usage Guide

Context: warning, responsibility, everyday

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 做事情之前要考虑后果。(Think about the consequences before doing things.)
• 后果很严重，你要小心。(The consequences are serious, you need to be careful.)

Don't Say

• 考试考得好是一个好的后果。(Don't use 后果 for positive results — 后果 implies something negative. Use 结果 or 成果 instead.)

Origin & History

Compound of 后 (after, behind) and 果 (fruit, result). Literally 'after-fruit,' meaning the outcome that follows an action.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal