inconsistent
Americanadjective
-
lacking in harmony between the different parts or elements; self-contradictory.
an inconsistent story.
- Synonyms:
- incoherent
-
lacking agreement, as one thing with another or two or more things in relation to each other; at variance.
a summary that is inconsistent with the previously stated facts.
- Synonyms:
- irreconcilable, discrepant
-
not consistent in principles, conduct, etc..
He's so inconsistent we never know if he'll be kind or cruel.
-
acting at variance with professed principles.
-
Logic. incompatible.
adjective
-
lacking in consistency, agreement, or compatibility; at variance
-
containing contradictory elements
-
irregular or fickle in behaviour or mood
-
Also: incompatible. maths (of two or more equations) not having one common set of values of the variables: x + 2 y = 5 and x + 2 y = 6 are inconsistent
-
logic (of a set of propositions) enabling an explicit contradiction to be validly derived
Related Words
Inconsistent, incompatible, incongruous refer to things that are out of keeping with each other. That which is inconsistent involves variance, discrepancy, or even contradiction, especially from the point of view of truth, reason, or logic: His actions are inconsistent with his statements. Incompatible implies incapability of close association or harmonious relationship, as from differences of nature, character, temperament, and the like: actions incompatible with honesty of purpose; qualities that make two people incompatible. Something that is incongruous is inappropriate or out of keeping, often to the point of being ridiculous or absurd: Incongruous characters or situations frequently provide a basis for comedy.
Other Word Forms
- inconsistently adverb
Etymology
Origin of inconsistent
First recorded in 1640–50; in- 3 + consistent
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The STC said it had been "taken by surprise" by the coalition air strikes in al-Dahle, describing them as an "unfortunate escalation that is inconsistent with the declared climate of dialogue".
From BBC
Caroline Woodley, London Councils' lead for children and young people, stresses that councils are trying to respond through investment, early intervention and integrated support, but admits the system is inconsistent and under pressure.
From BBC
The Times also reported that author of the report declined to endorse it because of substantial deletions that altered his findings, calling the edited version “highly unprofessional and inconsistent with our established standards.”
From Los Angeles Times
About 65 miles south is Glenshee Ski Centre, which has suffered from inconsistent snowfall over the years.
From BBC
Whether he was manipulative or just emotionally inconsistent, you felt pressured and indebted.
From MarketWatch
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
