inconsistent

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌɪn.kənˈsɪs.tənt/

KK: /ɪnˈkɒnsɪstənt/

adjective

Definition

Not having a steady or reliable pattern; showing differences or contradictions in behavior, statements, or results.

Example

Her performance was inconsistent, sometimes excellent and other times disappointing.

Conversation

I noticed your schedule has been really inconsistent lately.

Yeah, it's been hard to keep up with everything.

Maybe you should try to plan things out more carefully.

That's a good idea; a routine might help with the inconsistent days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

erratic

unreliable

variable

Antonyms

consistent

reliable

steady

Root Explanation

Inconsistent → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "consistere" (meaning to stand together or to be stable). The word "inconsistent" describes something that does not stand together or is not stable, indicating a lack of agreement or uniformity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to 'stand together' ('consistere') — that's why inconsistent means something that does not hold together or agree.

Visually Confused Words

unconsistent