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Definition of inconsistency

inconsistency

/ˌɪnkənˈsɪstənsi/
in · con · sis · ten · cy
Adverb:inconsistently
•
Plural:inconsistencies
•
Adjective:inconsistent
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inconsistency Lexical Profile

inconsistency Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of lacking agreement, harmony, or logical compatibility between different parts, statements, or facts; an instance of such a discrepancy.

Example

"The auditor discovered a major inconsistency between the company's reported earnings and its bank statements."

2

The quality of being changeable, unpredictable, or irregular in behavior, performance, or standards over time.

Example

"The tennis player's talent is undeniable, but her inconsistency on the court has kept her from winning a major title."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for inconsistency
Antonyms
View all antonyms for inconsistency

• Rhymes for inconsistency

• Nearby Words

inconsiderate
inconsiderately
inconsiderateness
inconsistency
inconsistent
inconsistently
inconsolable

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the mid-17th century, formed from the privative prefix 'in-' and 'consistency', ultimately from Latin 'consistere' ('to stand firm or agree'), combining 'com-' ('together') and 'sistere' ('to stand').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Inconsistency. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/inconsistency
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