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REFERENCE

consistent

adj.
US //kənˈsɪstənt// UK //kənsˈɪstənt// con·sis·tent
  1. 1 steady and dependable (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    always behaving or happening in the same way, especially in a good way.

    acting or done in the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate.

    Example

    The team's consistent performance throughout the season helped them win the championship.

    Example

    The teacher was praised for being consistent with her grading, ensuring that every student was held to the same rigorous standards regardless of the assignment.

  2. 2 matching or in agreement (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    agreeing with something else or not contradicting it.

    in agreement or harmony; compatible with other facts or principles.

    Example

    The witness's story was not consistent with the evidence found at the scene.

    Example

    The new policy is consistent with the company's long-term goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.

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  1. 3 logical and non-contradictory (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Technical Math

    used to describe a set of ideas or statements that do not contain any contradictions.

    referring to a system of axioms or statements where no contradiction can be derived.

    Example

    The scientist worked hard to ensure her theory was logically consistent.

    Example

    A mathematical system is considered consistent only if it is impossible to prove both a statement and its negation within that system.

  2. 4 texture or thickness (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Cooking

    having a smooth or steady texture without lumps.

    possessing a uniform physical texture or degree of density.

    Example

    Mix the flour and water until you have a consistent paste.

    Example

    The industrial mixer ensures the plastic resin maintains a consistent viscosity before it is injected into the moulds.

    Usage

    Often used when discussing the quality of a mixture or substance.

Origin

Borrowed from Latin cōnsistēntem, present participle of cōnsistō (“to agree with; to continue”), from con- (prefix indicating a being or bringing together of several objects) (ultimately from Proto-Indo-European ḱóm (“beside, by, near, with”)) + sistō (“to cause to stand; to place, set”) (ultimately from Proto-Indo-European stísteh₂ti (“to be standing up; to be getting up”), from the root *steh₂- (“to stand (up)”)).

Word family

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