inconsistent

adjective

in·​con·​sis·​tent ˌin-kən-ˈsi-stənt How to pronounce inconsistent (audio)
: lacking consistency: such as
a
: not compatible with another fact or claim
inconsistent statements
b
: containing incompatible elements
an inconsistent argument
c
: incoherent or illogical in thought or actions : changeable
d
: not satisfiable by the same set of values for the unknowns
inconsistent equations
inconsistent inequalities
inconsistently adverb

Examples of inconsistent in a Sentence

Customers have been complaining about the inconsistent service they have received. The pain has been inconsistent. Her grades have been inconsistent this school year. Their descriptions of the accident were inconsistent. The results of the two experiments were inconsistent. The decision was inconsistent with the company's policy.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Busch's team, Richard Childress Racing, has also struggled with inconsistent finishes, leading many to speculate that the NASCAR veteran has been considering retirement. Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2025 His current form may be inconsistent at best, but Finau believes the best results of his career are still ahead of him. Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Mar. 2025 Last season, Wright started Game 5 of Miami’s playoff series against the Celtics after inconsistent minutes following his trade from the Wizards. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 27 Mar. 2025 The Royals need to see offensive production instead of inconsistent play. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inconsistent

Word History

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inconsistent was in 1620

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Cite this Entry

“Inconsistent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inconsistent. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

inconsistent

adjective
in·​con·​sis·​tent ˌin-kən-ˈsis-tənt How to pronounce inconsistent (audio)
1
: not being in agreement or harmony : incompatible
an explanation inconsistent with the facts
2
: not logical or regular in thought or actions : changeable
a very inconsistent person
inconsistently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on inconsistent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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