inconsistency

noun

in·​con·​sis·​ten·​cy ˌin-kən-ˈsi-stən(t)-sē 

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

The timing couldn’t be better for the Royals, whose bullpen has been stretched thin by injuries and inconsistency. — Kansas City Star, 2 July 2026

There are also gameplay inconsistencies that have frustrated viewers who prize fairness above all. — Louis Peitzman, Entertainment Weekly, 29 June 2026

When confronted by lawmakers and journalists, Adorni has struggled to explain the inconsistency between his lavish spending and modest salary. — Clara Preve, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2026

Matt Rempe, who will surely be devastated about losing his linemate and best friend on the team, has dealt with his own inconsistencies and injury issues, but it’s been clear the organization prefers him, as well. — Vincent Z. Mercogliano, New York Times, 28 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for inconsistency

• consistency
• persistency

Kids Definition

inconsistency

noun

in·​con·​sis·​ten·​cy ˌin-kən-ˈsis-tən-sē 

plural inconsistencies

1

: the quality or state of being inconsistent

2

: an example of being inconsistent