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 ( def 4b ).

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. Alsoincompatible 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

Derived Forms

• ˌinconˈsistently, adverb

Other Words From

• incon·sistent·ly 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

Other businesses highlight what they see as a heavy bureaucratic burden at both national and European levels, inconsistent government decision-making from Berlin, plus higher labour costs and staff shortages.

From BBC

However, Amlung emphasized that the science supporting the viewpoint that cannabis improves sleep or reduces anxiety is inconsistent.

From Science Daily

While young people tend to use more texting abbreviations, they still weren't fans of them, although the findings were inconsistent in some of the studies, Fang said.

From Science Daily

“It can feel transactional, menus can feel overwhelming, product is inconsistent, the wait too long or the handoff too hectic,” he wrote.

From Salon

However, the report claimed this was "inconsistent" with documentary evidence.

From BBC

Related Words

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