Discrepancy: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to a lack of agreement between facts or figures, especially in formal or official contexts.

• There was a discrepancy between the reported profits and the actual earnings

This word is useful when describing a situation where people have different opinions or perspectives about a topic.

• Their disagreement over the project timeline led to a heated discussion

Often used in contexts involving social, economic, or statistical differences, usually to highlight inequality.

• There is a significant disparity in income levels between different regions

Appropriate when talking about differences that are usually expected or normal, often in scientific or statistical contexts.

• There is a lot of variation in the test scores of students from different schools

Used when there is a difference or inconsistency, especially relating to data, numbers or reports.

• There was a discrepancy between the sales records and the inventory count.
• The auditor found a discrepancy in the financial statements.

Occurs when two or more people have different opinions or views, often used in a conversational or argument context.

• They had a disagreement over the best way to handle the project.
• Their disagreement on political views led to a heated debate.

Refers to a great difference, often used in the context of social, economic, or health inequalities.

• There is a significant disparity in income levels between rural and urban areas.
• The healthcare disparity between different communities needs to be addressed.

Use this word when referring to a difference between two things that should be the same. Often used in formal or official contexts such as reports, accounts, or documentation.

• There is a discrepancy between the reported figures and the actual sales data.
• The audit revealed a discrepancy in the financial statements.

This word is used to describe a lack of uniformity or stability, indicating that something does not always follow the same pattern or rules. It can refer to behavior, information, or results.

• Her story showed several inconsistencies, making it hard to believe.
• The team's performance has been marked by inconsistency all season.

This word is used to highlight a noticeable and often unfair difference between two things or groups, especially in contexts of social, economic, or health inequalities.

• The disparity in income between the rich and the poor is growing.
• There is a significant disparity in access to education in rural areas.