inconsistent

[in-kuhn-sis-tuhnt]

adjective

1. lacking in harmony between the different parts or elements; self-contradictory.

   an inconsistent story.

   Synonyms: incoherent

2. 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

3. not consistent in principles, conduct, etc..

   He's so inconsistent we never know if he'll be kind or cruel.

4. acting at variance with professed principles.

5. Logic.,  incompatible.

inconsistent

/ ˌɪnkənˈsɪstənt /

adjective

1. lacking in consistency, agreement, or compatibility; at variance

2. containing contradictory elements

3. irregular or fickle in behaviour or mood

4. 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

5. logic (of a set of propositions) enabling an explicit contradiction to be validly derived

Other Word Forms

• inconsistently adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of inconsistent¹

First recorded in 1640–50; in- ³ + consistent

Synonym Study

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.

Example Sentences

Training for the Kurdish guards at the facilities is inconsistent because they are pulled away often to deal with instability elsewhere, the inspector general reported.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Bavuma, who has an unbeaten record as Test captain in 11 outings -- winning 10 and drawing one -- said the pitch "looks a lot better" from the turner with inconsistent bounce in Kolkata.

Read more on Barron's

Even as it announced that it would implement it early, Meta argued the ban would leave teens with "inconsistent protections across the many apps they use".

Read more on BBC

India lost a low-scoring first Test in Kolkata inside three days after they failed to chase down 124 on a turning pitch with inconsistent bounce.

Read more on Barron's

Led by skipper Bavuma, South Africa defied the odds on a turning pitch with inconsistent bounce at Eden Gardens to beat India at their own game of spin.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• conflicting 
• contrary 
• erratic 
• illogical 
• incompatible 
• irreconcilable 
• uncertain 
• unpredictable