verb
ensue
en-SOO/ɪnˈsuː/
To happen afterward, especially as a result.
The ball knocks over the cup, and a spill ensues.
Etymology
The pieces express following upon something. The idea of following a path or coming next extended to following as a consequence: an event ensues when it happens as a result.
In context
Preceding this was an attempted FBI force stop of two suspected serial violent criminals. What would ensue in the erupting gunfire would become the most bloody day in FBI history.
More examples
- If we ignore the warning, serious problems may ensue.
- Confusion ensued after the schedule changed without notice.
- The ensuing debate lasted well into the evening.
Forms
ensue · ensues · ensued · ensuing