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 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.

* * * * *

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.

* * * * *

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