imaginary consequence
[ɪˈmædʒɪˌneri ˈkɑːnsɪˌkwɛns]
noun phrasepl: imaginary consequences
consequência imaginária
1. A result or effect that is anticipated or feared but exists only in one's mind or imagination, not in reality
He worried about imaginary consequences of speaking up in the meeting, fearing rejection that never actually occurred.
Ele se preocupava com consequências imaginárias de falar na reunião, temendo uma rejeição que nunca realmente ocorreu.
2. A hypothetical outcome used in reasoning or thought experiments that is not based on actual events
The therapist helped the patient distinguish between real problems and imaginary consequences of her anxiety.
A terapeuta ajudou a paciente a distinguir entre problemas reais e consequências imaginárias de sua ansiedade.
This term is commonly used in psychological and therapeutic contexts in both Brazil and the USA to describe anxiety-driven thinking patterns. In Brazilian culture, discussions about 'consequências imaginárias' are frequent in mental health awareness campaigns. The concept relates to cognitive behavioral therapy practices and is used to help people distinguish between genuine threats and anxiety-based projections.
NYC Slang
head trip / mind game
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