discrepancy

Also dis·crep·ance

[dih-skrep-uhn-see]

noun

plural

discrepancies 

1. the state or quality of being discrepant or in disagreement, as by displaying an unexpected or unacceptable difference; inconsistency.

   The discrepancy between the evidence and his account of what happened led to his arrest.

   Synonyms: variance, contrariety, discordance, disagreement, incongruity

2. an instance of difference or inconsistency.

   There are certain discrepancies between the two versions of the story.

   Synonyms: variation

discrepancy

/ dɪˈskrɛpənsɪ /

noun

1. a conflict or variation, as between facts, figures, or claims

Usage

Discrepancy is sometimes wrongly used where disparity is meant. A discrepancy exists between things which ought to be the same; it can be small but is usually significant. A disparity is a large difference between measurable things such as age, rank, or wages

Word History and Origins

Origin of discrepancy¹

First recorded in 1615–25; from Latin discrepantia, from discrepant- (stem of discrepāns “sounding discordant”; discrepant ) + -ia -y ³ ( def. )

Synonym Study

See difference.

Example Sentences

The page continues to describe Hanks’s contributions and the significance of the award, creating a rare public discrepancy between the academy’s plans and its online messaging.

From Salon

He said Mr Arter's evidence about his wife's death was inconsistent and unreliable – but he did not accept any discrepancies as fact.

From BBC

It’s a fact that’s been known for years — but what exactly causes this discrepancy has remained elusive.

From Los Angeles Times

And instead of asking officers to clarify any discrepancies in their statements, Lloyd automatically assumes they are lying, some critics said.

From Los Angeles Times

One car was stopped by officers over a discrepancy with the vehicle's insurance.

From BBC

Related Words

• difference 
• disparity 
• distinction 
• divergence 
• error 
• inconsistency 
• miscalculation www.thesaurus.com
• variation