Inconsistent - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Inconsistent means not staying the same in behavior, quality, or performance. It describes something that varies or lacks uniformity, making it unreliable or unpredictable over time.
Definition:
Not staying the same in behavior, quality, or principles; lacking harmony or regularity.
Synonyms:
erratic, contradictory, variable, unreliable
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
consistent, reliable, uniform
Common Collocations:
inconsistent results, inconsistent behavior, inconsistent performance
Derivatives:
inconsistency, inconsistently
Usage Tips:
Use "inconsistent" to describe actions or qualities that vary unpredictably or fail to follow a pattern.
Common Phrases:
all over the map, hit or miss, up and down
Etymology:
From Latin "in-" (not) + "consistentem" (standing firm), meaning not holding together firmly.
Examples:
- 1. Her answers were inconsistent with her previous statements.
- 2. The team's performance has been inconsistent this season.
- 3. He has an inconsistent work schedule that changes weekly.
- 4. The data is inconsistent and needs further verification.