Understanding how to use the word “results” correctly is crucial for clear and effective communication in English. Whether you’re writing academic papers, business reports, or simply engaging in everyday conversation, knowing the nuances of “results” can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills.
This article provides a detailed exploration of the word “results,” covering its definition, grammatical structures, usage rules, common mistakes, and advanced applications. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to use “results” with confidence and precision.
This guide is designed for English learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers. We’ll break down complex concepts into manageable parts, providing numerous examples and practice exercises to reinforce your learning.
So, let’s dive in and unlock the power of “results” in your English communication!
Table of Contents
- 1. Definition of “Results”
- 2. Structural Breakdown
- 3. Types and Categories of “Results” Usage
- 4. Examples of “Results” in Sentences
- 5. Usage Rules for “Results”
- 6. Common Mistakes When Using “Results”
- 7. Practice Exercises
- 8. Advanced Topics
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- 10. Conclusion
1. Definition of “Results”
The word “results” refers to the consequences, effects, or outcomes of an action, process, or event. It signifies what happens as a direct or indirect effect of something else.
“Results” can be tangible, such as a physical product or a measurable statistic, or intangible, such as a feeling or a change in attitude. Understanding the multifaceted nature of “results” is key to using it effectively in various contexts.
It is often used in scientific, business, and everyday contexts to describe the outcomes of experiments, strategies, or decisions.
In grammar, “results” primarily functions as a plural noun. However, it can also be used as a verb, although less frequently.
As a noun, it typically refers to multiple outcomes or pieces of data. As a verb, it means to occur or follow as a consequence of something.
2. Structural Breakdown
The word “results” is structurally derived from the verb “result,” which comes from the Latin word “resultare,” meaning “to spring back” or “to result.” The addition of the suffix “-s” transforms “result” into its plural noun form, “results.”
When used as a noun, “results” typically appears in phrases like “the results of the study,” “positive results,” or “achieving results.” It often follows verbs such as “show,” “indicate,” “produce,” or “yield.” When used as a verb (though less common), it’s usually in the third-person singular form (“results in”) and followed by a noun phrase indicating the outcome.
Understanding these structural elements helps in constructing grammatically correct and meaningful sentences using “results.” It’s important to pay attention to the context to determine whether the noun or verb form is appropriate.
3. Types and Categories of “Results” Usage
3.1. “Results” as a Noun
The most common usage of “results” is as a plural noun. In this form, it refers to the outcomes or consequences of an action, experiment, or situation.
It’s crucial to remember that “results” is generally plural, even when referring to a single overall outcome that is comprised of multiple data points. For example, “The election results were announced last night.”
As a noun, “results” can be modified by adjectives to provide more specific information about the nature of the outcomes. For example, “positive results,” “negative results,” “unexpected results,” or “promising results.” These adjectives help to convey the specific characteristics of the outcomes being discussed.
3.2. “Results” as a Verb
While less frequent, “results” can also function as a verb, typically in the form “result in.” This means to cause or lead to a particular outcome. For example, “The heavy rain resulted in flooding.” The verb form emphasizes the causal relationship between an action or event and its consequence.
It’s important to note that the verb form “results” is often used in formal or academic writing. In everyday conversation, alternative expressions like “causes,” “leads to,” or “produces” might be more common.
However, “results in” remains a valid and useful option for expressing cause-and-effect relationships.
4. Examples of “Results” in Sentences
To further illustrate the usage of “results,” let’s examine a variety of examples in different contexts. These examples will cover both the noun and verb forms, as well as various ways to modify and use “results” in sentences.
4.1. Noun Examples
The following table provides examples of “results” used as a noun in various contexts. Notice how the word is used to describe outcomes of different actions or situations.
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| The experiment results were inconclusive. | Scientific research |
| The company announced its quarterly results. | Business report |
| The election results are expected to be close. | Political news |
| The doctor is waiting for the lab results. | Medical diagnosis |
| The survey results showed a high level of satisfaction. | Market research |
| Hard work always yields positive results. | General statement |
| The competition results will be announced tomorrow. | Event outcome |
| The training program produced excellent results. | Educational program |
| The investigation results were made public. | Legal/investigative context |
| These are the final results for the marathon. | Sporting event |
| The therapy results are very encouraging. | Medical treatment |
| The test results were negative. | Medical testing |
| The analysis results showed a significant increase. | Data analysis |
| The poll results accurately predicted the outcome. | Political forecasting |
| We are waiting for the performance results. | Performance evaluation |
| The economic results are better than expected. | Economic analysis |
| The project results exceeded our expectations. | Project management |
| The negotiations results were unsatisfactory. | Diplomacy/Negotiations |
| The audit results revealed some discrepancies. | Financial audit |
| The genetic results were conclusive. | Genetic testing |
| The weather results of the experiment are promising. | Scientific experiment |
| The advertising campaign results were outstanding. | Marketing strategy |
| The software testing results show a few bugs. | Software development |
4.2. Verb Examples
Here are examples of “result in” used as a verb. Notice how it connects an action or event to its subsequent outcome.
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| The accident resulted in several injuries. | Accident report |
| The new policy resulted in increased efficiency. | Business management |
| Their efforts resulted in a successful outcome. | Project completion |
| The lack of preparation resulted in failure. | Consequences of inaction |
| The changes resulted in improved performance. | Performance improvement |
| The fire resulted in significant damage. | Disaster report |
| The experiment resulted in a new discovery. | Scientific breakthrough |
| The argument resulted in a broken friendship. | Interpersonal conflict |
| The investment resulted in substantial profits. | Financial investment |
| The negligence resulted in a lawsuit. | Legal consequence |
| The storm resulted in power outages. | Weather event |
| The protest resulted in policy changes. | Social activism |
| The delay resulted in customer complaints. | Business operations |
| The misunderstanding resulted in confusion. | Communication breakdown |
| The innovation resulted in a competitive advantage. | Business strategy |
| The reforms resulted in economic growth. | Economic policy |
| The conflict resulted in a peace treaty. | International relations |
| The flood resulted in widespread destruction. | Natural disaster |
| The improvements resulted in greater satisfaction. | Customer service |
| The investigation resulted in several arrests. | Law enforcement |
| The new regulations resulted in stricter compliance. | Regulatory compliance |
| The collaboration resulted in a successful partnership. | Business collaboration |
| The cost-cutting measures resulted in job losses. | Corporate restructuring |
4.3. Describing Types of Results
The word “results” can be paired with adjectives to specify the nature or quality of the outcomes. The table below presents examples of such pairings.
| Adjective + Results | Example Sentence | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Positive Results | The treatment showed positive results in the majority of patients. | Medical treatment |
| Negative Results | The test came back with negative results, indicating no infection. | Medical testing |
| Unexpected Results | The experiment yielded unexpected results, prompting further investigation. | Scientific research |
| Promising Results | The initial trials showed promising results and we are hopeful. | Drug development |
| Inconclusive Results | The investigation produced inconclusive results, leaving many questions unanswered. | Investigation outcome |
| Accurate Results | The new software provides accurate results for data analysis. | Data analysis software |
| Reliable Results | The study aimed to produce reliable results that could be replicated. | Research methodology |
| Consistent Results | The machine gave consistent results over multiple trials. | Machine testing |
| Immediate Results | The medication promised immediate results for pain relief. | Medication efficacy |
| Long-term Results | The long-term results of the policy are still being evaluated. | Policy evaluation |
| Tangible Results | The project produced tangible results in increased sales. | Business project |
| Intangible Results | The leadership training led to intangible results such as improved morale. | Employee training |
| Preliminary Results | The preliminary results suggest a positive trend. | Initial findings |
| Final Results | The final results of the competition were announced. | Competition outcome |
| Statistical Results | The statistical results showed a significant correlation. | Statistical analysis |
| Favorable Results | The treatment produced favorable results for most patients. | Medical treatment |
| Unfavorable Results | The audit revealed unfavorable results regarding financial practices. | Financial audit |
| Mixed Results | The study yielded mixed results, some positive and some negative. | Research study |
| Significant Results | The analysis showed significant results indicating a major change. | Data analysis |
| Marginal Results | The efforts produced only marginal results, indicating the need for a new strategy. | Strategy review |
| Objective Results | The study focused on collecting objective results. | Research design |
| Subjective Results | The survey produced subjective results. | Survey design |
| Published Results | The researcher finally saw the published results of his study. | Research publication |
4.4. Results after Actions
The following table provides examples of results obtained after certain actions.
| Action | Results | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Studying diligently | Good grades | Studying diligently results in good grades. |
| Saving money | Financial security | Saving money results in financial security. |
| Exercising regularly | Improved health | Exercising regularly results in improved health. |
| Practicing a skill | Mastery | Practicing a skill consistently results in mastery. |
| Investing wisely | Wealth accumulation | Investing wisely results in wealth accumulation. |
| Ignoring warnings | Negative consequences | Ignoring warnings often results in negative consequences. |
| Procrastinating | Increased stress | Procrastinating results in increased stress and anxiety. |
| Communicating clearly | Better understanding | Communicating clearly results in better understanding and cooperation. |
| Poor planning | Inefficient execution | Poor planning results in inefficient execution of tasks. |
| Taking risks | Potential rewards | Taking calculated risks can result in potential rewards. |
| Seeking feedback | Continuous improvement | Seeking feedback results in continuous improvement in performance. |
| Ignoring maintenance | Equipment failure | Ignoring regular maintenance results in equipment failure. |
| Providing support | Stronger relationships | Providing consistent support results in stronger relationships. |
| Failing to adapt | Missed opportunities | Failing to adapt to changes results in missed opportunities. |
| Implementing changes | Varied outcomes | Implementing changes results in varied outcomes depending on the context. |
| Cutting costs | Reduced quality | Cutting costs indiscriminately can result in reduced quality. |
| Ignoring customer feedback | Decreased sales | Ignoring customer feedback results in decreased sales and loyalty. |
| Focusing on innovation | Competitive advantage | Focusing on innovation results in competitive advantage in the market. |
| Neglecting safety measures | Increased accidents | Neglecting safety measures results in increased accidents and injuries. |
| Investing in training | Skilled workforce | Investing in employee training results in a more skilled workforce. |
| Ignoring ethical considerations | Damage to reputation | Ignoring ethical considerations results in damage to reputation. |
| Promoting teamwork | Improved productivity | Promoting teamwork results in improved productivity and efficiency. |
| Withholding information | Mistrust | Withholding information results in mistrust and suspicion. |
4.5. Analyzing results
The following table provides examples of ways to analyze results in different scenarios.
| Scenario | Analysis | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Sales Performance | Compare sales figures to previous periods. | Analyzing the sales results, we compared the current figures to those of the previous quarter. |
| Market Research | Interpret survey responses. | After gathering the market research results, we interpreted the survey responses to identify trends. |
| Medical Trials | Assess the effectiveness of a new drug. | Analyzing the medical trial results, we assessed the effectiveness of the new drug. |
| A/B Testing | Determine which version performs better. | By analyzing the A/B testing results, we determined which version of the website performed better. |
| Website Analytics | Examine user behavior. | Reviewing the website analytics results, we examined user behavior patterns. |
| Employee Surveys | Evaluate employee satisfaction. | Analyzing the employee survey results, we evaluated employee satisfaction levels. |
| Financial Audit | Identify discrepancies. | Reviewing the financial audit results, we identified several discrepancies in the accounts. |
| Project Management | Assess project success. | Analyzing the project management results, we assessed the overall success of the project. |
| Social Media Analytics | Measure campaign performance. | By analyzing the social media analytics results, we measured the performance of the marketing campaign. |
| Scientific Experiments | Draw conclusions based on data. | After collecting the scientific experiment results, we drew conclusions based on the gathered data. |
| Customer Feedback | Identify areas for improvement. | By analyzing the customer feedback results, we identified areas for improvement in our services. |
| Educational Assessments | Evaluate student performance. | Reviewing the educational assessment results, we evaluated student performance and learning outcomes. |
| Environmental Monitoring | Assess pollution levels. | Analyzing the environmental monitoring results, we assessed pollution levels in the region. |
| Security Audits | Identify vulnerabilities. | Reviewing the security audit results, we identified several vulnerabilities in the system. |
| Performance Reviews | Assess employee contributions. | Analyzing the performance review results, we assessed employee contributions and set future goals. |
| Competitor Analysis | Identify market opportunities. | By analyzing the competitor analysis results, we identified potential market opportunities. |
| Risk Assessments | Evaluate potential threats. | Reviewing the risk assessment results, we evaluated potential threats to the organization. |
| Usability Testing | Improve user experience. | Analyzing the usability testing results, we improved the user experience of the application. |
| Quality Control | Ensure product standards. | Reviewing the quality control results, we ensured that the products met the required standards. |
| Clinical Trials | Evaluate treatment efficacy. | Analyzing the clinical trial results, we evaluated the efficacy of the new treatment. |
| Machine Learning Models | Assess model performance. | By analyzing the machine learning model results, we assessed the predictive accuracy of the model. |
| Network Analysis | Identify communication patterns. | Reviewing the network analysis results, we identified communication patterns within the organization. |
| Energy Audits | Identify energy inefficiencies. | Analyzing the energy audit results, we identified several areas of energy inefficiency. |
5. Usage Rules for “Results”
To ensure accurate and effective use of “results,” it’s important to follow specific grammatical rules. These rules cover aspects such as pluralization, subject-verb agreement, and the correct use of prepositions.
5.1. Plural Form
As mentioned earlier, “results” is generally used in its plural form, even when referring to a single overall outcome. This is because the overall outcome is usually derived from many data points.
Therefore, it’s essential to use the plural form unless you’re referring to the singular “result” in a less common context.
For example, it’s correct to say “The study results indicate a positive trend,” rather than “The study result indicates a positive trend.” The plural form acknowledges that the conclusion is based on multiple pieces of data.
5.2. Subject-Verb Agreement
When using “results” as the subject of a sentence, remember that it’s a plural noun and requires a plural verb. For example, “The election results are expected to be announced soon,” not “The election results is expected to be announced soon.”
Pay close attention to subject-verb agreement, especially in complex sentences where the subject and verb may be separated by other words or phrases. Ensure that the verb agrees with the plural noun “results.”
5.3. Prepositions with “Results”
Certain prepositions are commonly used with “results” to indicate relationships between the outcomes and other elements in the sentence. Some common prepositions include “of,” “in,” “from,” and “with.”
Here are some examples:
- Results of the experiment: “The results of the experiment confirmed the hypothesis.”
- Results in: “The new strategy results in increased efficiency.”
- Results from: “The problems results from poor planning.”
- Results with: “We had great results with the new marketing campaign.”
Choosing the correct preposition is crucial for conveying the intended meaning and ensuring grammatical accuracy.
6. Common Mistakes When Using “Results”
Even with a solid understanding of the rules, it’s easy to make common mistakes when using “results.” Recognizing these errors can help you avoid them in your own writing and speaking.
Here are some frequent errors:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| The study result was positive. | The study results were positive. | “Results” is generally plural. |
| The election results is in. | The election results are in. | Plural subject requires a plural verb. |
| The success resulted by hard work. | The success resulted from hard work. | Correct preposition usage. |
| We are waiting for the result. | We are waiting for the results. | Unless referring to a single, specific outcome. |
| The result of the test are good. | The results of the test are good. | Subject-verb agreement with plural noun. |
| Hard work result to success. | Hard work results in success. | Correct verb form and preposition. |
| The result were unexpected. | The results were unexpected. | Subject-verb agreement. |
| The results is promising. | The results are promising. | Plural subject requires plural verb. |
| The new policy resulted. | The new policy resulted in improvements. | Needs a ‘what’ after the verb. |
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can proofread your work more effectively and ensure that you’re using “results” correctly.
7. Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding of “results,” let’s work through some practice exercises. These exercises will cover various aspects of using “results” in sentences, including fill-in-the-blanks, sentence correction, and sentence building.
7.1. Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate form of “result” or “results.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The survey ______ indicated a high level of customer satisfaction. | results |
| 2. The accident ______ in several injuries. | resulted |
| 3. We are waiting for the final ______ of the competition. | results |
| 4. The experiment ______ were inconclusive. | results |
| 5. Their efforts ______ in a successful project completion. | resulted |
| 6. The study ______ showed a positive correlation. | results |
| 7. The changes ______ in improved efficiency. | resulted |
| 8. The election ______ are expected to be announced soon. | results |
| 9. Hard work often ______ in success. | results |
| 10. The investigation ______ are still pending. | results |
7.2. Exercise 2: Sentence Correction
Correct the following sentences that contain errors in the use of “result” or “results.”
| Incorrect Sentence | Corrected Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1. The study result was positive. | The study results were positive. |
| 2. The election results is in. | The election results are in. |
| 3. Hard work result to success. | Hard work results in success. |
| 4. We are waiting for the result. | We are waiting for the results. |
| 5. The result of the test are good. | The results of the test are good. |
| 6. The experiment result were surprising. | The experiment results were surprising. |
| 7. The success resulted by hard work. | The success resulted from hard work. |
| 8. The results is promising. | The results are promising. |
| 9. The new policy resulted. | The new policy resulted in improvements. |
| 10. The result were unexpected. | The results were unexpected. |
7.3. Exercise 3: Sentence Building
Use “result” or “results” to build sentences based on the given prompts.
| Prompt | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1. The experiment… | The experiment results confirmed the hypothesis. |
| 2. The new policy… | The new policy resulted in increased customer satisfaction. |
| 3. Their hard work… | Their hard work resulted in a successful project launch. |
| 4. The survey… | The survey results indicated a need for improvement. |
| 5. The investigation… | The investigation results are expected to be released soon. |
| 6. The training program… | The training program resulted in improved employee performance. |
| 7. The competition… | The competition results were announced yesterday. |
| 8. The economic changes… | The economic changes resulted in a market downturn. |
| 9. The medical treatment… | The medical treatment showed promising results in early trials. |
| 10. The marketing campaign… | The marketing campaign results exceeded our expectations. |
8. Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, let’s delve into more complex aspects of using “results,” including result clauses and idiomatic expressions.
8.1. Result Clauses
Result clauses are dependent clauses that express the consequence or outcome of the action or situation described in the main clause. They often begin with conjunctions like “so,” “so that,” or “such…that.”
Here are some examples:
- The team worked hard, so they achieved excellent results.
- The experiment was carefully designed, so that the results would be reliable.
- The demand was such that the company saw impressive results.
Understanding result clauses can help you construct more complex and nuanced sentences that effectively convey cause-and-effect relationships.
8.2. Idiomatic Expressions with “Results”
While there aren’t many common idiomatic expressions that
prominently feature the word “results,” understanding related idioms can still be helpful. For instance, phrases like “reap the rewards” or “bear fruit” convey a similar sense of achieving positive outcomes after dedicated effort.
Here are a few examples:
- Reap the rewards: After years of hard work, she finally reaped the rewards of her efforts.
- Bear fruit: The new marketing strategy began to bear fruit within a few months.
These expressions emphasize the idea that consistent effort leads to tangible or intangible benefits, similar to achieving favorable “results.”
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about using “results” in sentences, along with their answers.
When should I use “result” instead of “results”?
Use “result” in the singular form when referring to a single, specific outcome, especially when it’s not derived from multiple data points. However, “results” is generally preferred as it often encompasses multiple pieces of data contributing to an overall outcome.
Is it correct to say “the result are”?
No, it is incorrect. “Results” is a plural noun and requires a plural verb.
The correct phrase is “the results are.”
How can I make my sentences with “results” more specific?
Use adjectives to describe the nature or quality of the results, such as “positive results,” “unexpected results,” or “promising results.” Also, provide context by specifying the action or situation that led to the results.
What are some alternatives to “results” in formal writing?
In formal writing, you can use alternatives such as “outcomes,” “consequences,” “effects,” or “findings,” depending on the context.
How do I use “result in” correctly?
“Result in” is a verb phrase that means to cause or lead to a particular outcome. Use it to connect an action or event to its subsequent consequence.
For example, “The heavy rain resulted in flooding.”
10. Conclusion
Mastering the use of “results” in sentences is essential for clear and effective communication in English. By understanding its definition, grammatical structures, usage rules, and common mistakes, you can enhance your writing and speaking skills significantly.
Throughout this guide, we’ve covered various aspects of using “results,” from its basic definition to advanced topics like result clauses and idiomatic expressions. We’ve also provided numerous examples and practice exercises to reinforce your learning.
With the knowledge and practice gained from this article, you can now confidently use “results” in a variety of contexts, ensuring that your communication is precise, accurate, and impactful. Keep practicing and refining your skills, and you’ll continue to improve your mastery of the English language.