The term "secondary effects" is a noun phrase.
/sɛkˈɛndəri ɪˈfɛkts/
"Secondary effects" refer to outcomes that are not the primary or intended results of an action or event. These effects can occur as indirect consequences of a particular situation or decision, often implying a different level of impact or significance compared to primary effects.
In English, the term is commonly used in various fields such as medicine, economics, environmental science, and social studies to describe the aftermath of an occurrence. It is frequently used in both spoken and written contexts, with a notable presence in academic and professional writing.
The term is used frequently in academic and professional settings, particularly when analyzing causes and effects in research and discussions.
The medication was effective, but we were concerned about the secondary effects it might have on the patient's health.
El medicamento fue efectivo, pero estábamos preocupados por los efectos secundarios que podría tener en la salud del paciente.
The policy changes initiated by the government had various secondary effects on the economy that were not immediately apparent.
Los cambios de política iniciados por el gobierno tuvieron varios efectos secundarios en la economía que no eran inmediatamente evidentes.
Scientists are studying the secondary effects of climate change on wildlife habitats.
Los científicos están estudiando los efectos secundarios del cambio climático en los hábitats de la fauna.
While "secondary effects" may not frequently feature in idiomatic expressions, the concept can align with several phrases and discussions relating to unintended consequences. Here are some relevant expressions:
The military operation caused some collateral damage that affected innocent civilians.
La operación militar causó daño colateral que afectó a civiles inocentes.
"Ripple effect" - A situation where one event sets off a chain of similar events.
The decision to cut funding had a ripple effect on various community services.
La decisión de recortar fondos tuvo un efecto dominó en varios servicios comunitarios.
"Unintended consequences" - Outcomes that are not the ones foreseen and intended by a purposeful action.
The reform was meant to improve the education system, but there were several unintended consequences.
La reforma pretendía mejorar el sistema educativo, pero hubo varias consecuencias no deseadas.
"Blowback" - The unintended adverse results of a political action or situation.
The word "secondary" comes from the Latin "secundarius," meaning "of the second rank." Meanwhile, "effects" derives from the Latin "effectus," signifying "the act of doing or finishing." The term carries the connotation of results that follow or stem from an initial action.