Which of the following best defines the underlined word in the following sentence: “When John shoplifted, the police officer said he would face some consequences.”

“Consequences” are results or actions that follow when someone breaks a rule or fails to meet a responsibility. Since John shoplifted, the officer is referring to government action in response to his offense. Choice A, “actions by the government when duties are not fulfilled,” best defines the word; consequences do not necessarily mean violent punishment.

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