ensue
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/ɪnˈsjuː/
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To happen after something else, especially as a result, and historically to pursue or seek after.
Examples
The investigation ensued after the incident.
Chaos ensued once the power went out.
A storm ensued when the cold front moved in.
Public outcry ensued when the scandal was revealed.
Laughter ensued when the joke was told.
Similar words
transpire
follow
arise
arise
proceed
track
happen
result
result
stem
Meanings
Examples
The argument ensued after the heated debate.
A storm ensued when the cold front moved in.
Chaos ensued once the power went out.
Silence ensued after the final note faded.
A series of complaints ensued after the policy change.
Laughter ensued when the joke was told.
The investigation ensued after the incident.
Similar words
follow
result
occur
happen
arise
transpire
Examples
Legal action ensued following the breach of contract.
Economic decline ensued after the market crash.
A flood ensued due to heavy rains.
Public outcry ensued when the scandal was revealed.
A debate ensued over the new regulations.
A chain reaction ensued when the first domino fell.
A protest ensued after the controversial decision.
Similar words
result
follow
arise
stem
derive
proceed
Examples
The knight ensued the dragon across the valley.
She ensued her dreams with relentless effort.
The hunter ensued the stag through the forest.
He ensued the truth despite obstacles.
The scholar ensued knowledge in ancient texts.
They ensued the lost relic with determination.
The detective ensued clues to solve the case.
Similar words
pursue
chase
seek
track
hunt
follow
Etymology
From Old French ensuivre, from Latin insequi ‘to follow closely’.
FAQ
It means to happen after something else, especially as a result.
How is ensue used in a sentence?
A storm ensued after the cold front moved in.
Yes, its past tense is formed by adding –ed: ensued.
Can ensue be used in formal writing?
Yes, especially when describing a consequence, e.g., “Legal action ensued after the breach.”
What is the archaic meaning of ensue?
Historically it meant to pursue or seek after something.
What are common mistakes with ensue?
People often confuse it with “ensure” or misuse the past tense.
Are there synonyms for ensue?
Synonyms include follow, result, occur, happen, arise, and transpire.
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