inconsistency

noun

in·​con·​sis·​ten·​cy ˌin-kən-ˈsi-stən(t)-sē How to pronounce inconsistency (audio)
Synonyms of inconsistencynext
1
: an instance of being inconsistent
… treats every human inconsistency as a hypocrisy …—G. K. Chesterton
2
: the quality or state of being inconsistent
inconsistency in the restaurant's service
noticed inconsistency in the two statements

Examples of inconsistency in a Sentence

Police noticed inconsistency in his two statements. Customers have been complaining about the inconsistency in the quality of service they have received. The team's biggest problem has been inconsistency: it has played well at times, but at other times it has played very poorly. There is some inconsistency in her argument. Careful editing of the entire text has eliminated inconsistencies of style. We noted a major inconsistency in his story.
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.
Testing data transfers in stages can help uncover inconsistencies early and reduce the risk of disrupting program operations. — Paul Toomey, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026 In the state’s final rebuttal before jurors began deliberating Monday afternoon, Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Marc DiGiacomo dismissed Sanft’s argument that inconsistencies in Davis’ accounts undermined the prosecution’s case. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 1 Sep. 2026 However, eating at times that conflict with the central clock—most notably late at night, when the body is preparing for sleep and recovery—can create inconsistency. — Maggie Donahue, HEALTH, 1 Sep. 2026 Be prepared to explain any inconsistencies or negative marks. — Carson Brunson, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inconsistency

Word History

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inconsistency was in 1647

Rhymes for inconsistency

See All Rhymes for inconsistency

Browse Nearby Words

inconsistence
inconsistency
inconsistent
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inconsistency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inconsistency. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inconsistency

noun
in·​con·​sis·​ten·​cy ˌin-kən-ˈsis-tən-sē How to pronounce inconsistency (audio)
plural inconsistencies
1
: the quality or state of being inconsistent
2
: an example of being inconsistent

More from Merriam-Webster on inconsistency

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for inconsistency

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about inconsistency

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