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

The inconsistent performance of sterling, the trade dispute with the U.S., and the impending U.K. budget—which could include tax increases—has done little to encourage customers to buy flight tickets, Hunter adds.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

As that second club volleyball season progressed, mistakes that made him an inconsistent player got a little more rare, and the good began to outweigh the bad.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Advocating a secure border while welcoming migrants who respect our laws, conservatives insist, is neither unreasonable nor inconsistent.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Already a dominant defender in her first season, Smith was inconsistent shooting from the perimeter as a freshman.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The inspectors say the prison regime was curtailed, inconsistent and unpredictable, with prisoners regularly locked up until late in the morning and from 16:00, with no evening activities.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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