English Synonyms and Antonyms

Effect is the strongest of these words; it is that which is directly produced by the action of an efficient cause;
we say, "Every effect must have an adequate cause" (compare CAUSE). In regard to human actions, effect
commonly relates to intention; as, the shot took effect, i. e., the effect intended. A consequence is that which
follows an act naturally, but less directly than the effect. The motion of the piston is the effect, and the
agitation of the water under the paddle-wheels a consequence of the expansion of steam in the cylinder. The
result is, literally, the rebound of an act, depending on many elements; the issue is that which flows forth
directly; we say the issue of a battle, the result of a campaign. A consequent commonly is that which follows
Synonyms and Antonyms, by James Champlin Fernald
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simply in order of time, or by logical inference. The end is the actual outcome without determination of its
relation to what has gone before; it is ordinarily viewed as either the necessary, natural, or logical outcome,
any effect, consequence, or result being termed an end; as, the end of such a course must be ruin. The event
(L. e, out, and venio, come) is primarily exactly the same in meaning as outcome; but in use it is more nearly
equivalent to upshot signifying the sum and substance of all effects, consequences, and results of a course of
action. Compare ACCIDENT; CAUSE; CIRCUMSTANCE; END; EVENT.
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CONSOLE.
Synonyms:
comfort, condole with, encourage, sympathize with.
One condoles with another by the expression of kindly sympathy in his trouble; he consoles him by
considerations adapted to soothe and sustain the spirit, as by the assurances and promises of the gospel; he
encourages him by the hope of some relief or deliverance; he comforts him by whatever act or word tends to
bring mind or body to a state of rest and cheer. We sympathize with others, not only in sorrow, but in joy.
Compare ALLEVIATE; PITY.
Antonyms:
annoy, distress, disturb, grieve, hurt, sadden, trouble, wound.
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CONTAGION.
Synonym:
infection.
Infection is frequently confused with contagion, even by medical men. The best usage now limits contagion to
diseases that are transmitted by contact with the diseased person, either directly by touch or indirectly by use
of the same articles, by breath, effluvia, etc. Infection is applied to diseases produced by no known or
definable influence of one person upon another, but where common climatic, malarious, or other wide-spread
conditions are believed to be chiefly instrumental.
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CONTINUAL.
Synonyms:
ceaseless, incessant, regular, uninterrupted, constant, invariable, unbroken, unremitting, continuous, perpetual,
unceasing, unvarying.
Continuous describes that which is absolutely without pause or break; continual, that which often intermits,
but as regularly begins again. A continuous beach is exposed to the continual beating of the waves. A similar
distinction is made between incessant and ceaseless. The incessant discharge of firearms makes the ceaseless
roar of battle. Constant is sometimes used in the sense of continual; but its chief uses are mental and moral.
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CONTRACT.
Synonyms:
agreement, cartel, engagement, pledge, arrangement, compact, obligation, promise, bargain, covenant, pact,
stipulation.
All these words involve at least two parties, tho an engagement or promise may be the act of but one. A