ensue

verb

en·​sue in-ˈsü 

en-

ensued; ensuing

transitive verb

: to strive to attain : pursue

I wander, seeking peace, and ensuing it

—Rupert Brooke

intransitive verb

: to take place afterward or as a result

Choose the Right Synonym for ensue

follow, succeed, ensue, supervene mean to come after something or someone.

follow may apply to a coming after in time, position, or logical sequence.

speeches followed the dinner

succeed implies a coming after immediately in a sequence determined by natural order, inheritance, election, or laws of rank.

she succeeded her father as head of the business

ensue commonly suggests a logical consequence or naturally expected development.

after the talk a general discussion ensued

supervene suggests the following or beginning of something unforeseen or unpredictable.

unable to continue because of supervening circumstances

Examples of ensue in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pandemonium ensued as Perry was mobbed by teammates and fans who stormed the court. —Ryan Canfield, Fox News, 7 Feb. 2025

Normally, a book deal might have ensued, but Brier and the editor came up with the notion of releasing an audio-only narrative, like an old-timey radio play, only updated for the digital age. —Seija Rankin, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Feb. 2025

But an email thread ensued four days later with several faculty members who urged for stronger support and further clarity about the campus’ policy regarding immigration enforcement. —Mathew Miranda, Sacramento Bee, 5 Feb. 2025

Brock Boeser scored on the ensuing power-play sequence, adding a crucial insurance goal to Vancouver’s account. —Thomas Drance, The Athletic, 5 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French ensivre (3rd singular ensiut), from en- + sivre to follow — more at sue

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

ensue

verb

en·​sue in-ˈsü 

ensued; ensuing

: to come at a later time or as a result : follow

ensuing effects