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Definition of inconsistent

inconsistent

/ˌɪnkənˈsɪstənt/
in · con · sis · tent
Adverb:inconsistently
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inconsistent Lexical Profile

inconsistent Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Not staying the same throughout; acting at variance with one's own previous behavior, quality, or standards.

Example

"The team's inconsistent performance this season made it difficult to predict whether they would reach the finals."

2

Not compatible or in keeping with other facts, principles, or aspects of something; containing contradictions.

Example

"The witness gave an account that was completely inconsistent with the physical evidence found at the scene."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for inconsistent
Antonyms
View all antonyms for inconsistent

• Rhymes for inconsistent

• Nearby Words

inconsiderately
inconsiderateness
inconsistency
inconsistent
inconsistently
inconsolable
inconsolably

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, formed from the Latin prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'consistent', which derives from the Latin 'consistere' ('to stand firm or agree').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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