Acquaintance, somebody known or met before.

I'm contacting several of my acquaintances, to see if they know of any job opportunities.

I don't know him well, but he is an acquaintance of mine from a long time ago.

Appearance: how something looks, what something looks like.

He could improve his appearance by buying some new clothes.

He doesn't care about his appearance, so he doesn't make a good impression.

Consequence, an?outcome?or result.

Many forms of life will become extinct as a consequence of?global warming.

One consequence of his drinking has been the poor quality of his work.

Factor: something that affects or influences the end result.

One factor that needs to be considered is his arrogant personality.

Her health is one factor we can't afford to ignore.

Exception, to be unique or treated differently.

Everyone has to be in the office before 9:00, with the exception of the sales department.

I'm sorry, but I can't make an exception and allow you to bring your dog to the office.

(I'm not sure he understands the consequences of his arrogant attitude.)

(Without exception, I expect everyone to work through the weekend.)