Result Clauses
A result clause describes the consequence of an action. It is introduced by ut (positive) or ut nōn (negative) + a subjunctive verb, always with an intensifying word in the main clause.
How Result Clauses Work
Intensifying words in the main clause: tam (so), ita (so), adeō (to such an extent), tantus (so great), tot (so many). One of these always appears before the result clause.
The ut clause then states the result: "so [adj/adv] that…"
Negative result: ut nōn + subjunctive — "so X that not…"
Distinguishing from purpose: result has tam/ita/adeō/tantus/tot in the main clause; purpose does not. The subjunctive tense follows sequence of tenses in both.
Worked Examples
- tam fortis erat ut nēmō eum vincere posset. — He was so brave that no one was able to defeat him. (tam in main clause signals result)
- ita festīnāvit ut caderet. — He hurried so much that he fell. (ita intensifies the main verb)
- tantus timor erat ut omnēs fugerent. — There was such great fear that everyone fled. (tantus modifies the noun)
- tot mīlitēs erant ut numerārī nōn possent. — There were so many soldiers that they could not be counted. (tot + ut nōn = negative result)
Purpose vs Result Clauses
| Feature | Purpose Clause | Result Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Introducer | ut / nē | ut (always positive after tam/ita/adeō) |
| Clue in main clause | verb of motion or intention | tam, ita, adeō, tantus, tot |
| Question it answers | Why? (aim) | What happened? (outcome) |
| Subjunctive tense | follows sequence | follows sequence |
| Example | vēnit ut vidēret | tam fortis erat ut nēmō eum vinceret |
Exam tip: Look for tam, ita, adeō, tantus, or tot in the main clause — that is your signal that a result clause is coming. If you see ut + subjunctive with no intensifying word in the main clause, it is more likely a purpose clause or indirect command.
See Also
- Purpose Clauses — same ut + subjunctive, different signal in main clause
- Fearing Clauses — nē/ut with opposite logic
- Sequence of Tenses — governs subjunctive tense choice