What does "inconsistent" mean?

1. (changing often) not staying the same in quality or behaviour; unpredictable. 2. (not matching) containing parts that do not agree with each other or with the facts.

How do you use "inconsistent"?

Often used to describe performance, quality, or human behaviour. Commonly followed by the preposition 'with'.

inconsistent

adj.

US //ˌɪnkənˈsɪstənt// UK //ɪnkənsˈɪstənt// in·con·sis·tent

1 changing often (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

not staying the same in quality or behaviour; unpredictable.

lacking a steady or uniform quality over time; erratic in performance or behaviour.

Example

The team lost the game because their defense was inconsistent throughout the season.

Example

The athlete's inconsistent performance during the qualifiers raised concerns about her ability to maintain focus under the pressure of the finals.

Usage

Often used to describe performance, quality, or human behaviour.
2 not matching (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Logic

containing parts that do not agree with each other or with the facts.

displaying a lack of logical harmony or agreement between different elements, statements, or findings.

Example

The witness gave an inconsistent account of what happened that night.

Example

The researcher noted that the new data was inconsistent with previous findings, suggesting a need for a complete revision of the theory.

Usage

Commonly followed by the preposition 'with'.
- compatible
- harmonious

Origin

From in- + consistent.