Inconsistently: meaning, definitions and examples

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inconsistently

 

[ ˌɪnkənˈsɪstəntli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

used in speech or writing

In a way that is not staying the same in quality or behavior, or not having the same principles as others.

Synonyms

erratically, unpredictably, variably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inconsistently

Note: this is a duplicate and should be the same as the first 'inconsistently'.

  • She practices the piano inconsistently, making it hard to see progress
  • His performance at work has been inconsistent lately
variably

This is used when describing something that changes or varies in different conditions or situations.

  • The temperature in the mountains changes variably throughout the day
  • Sales numbers have been variably increasing and decreasing each month
erratically

This is best used to describe actions or movements that are unpredictable, irregular, and often in a disorganized manner. Typically has a negative connotation.

  • The car moved erratically down the street, causing concern for other drivers
  • He reacted erratically to the sudden news
unpredictably

This is appropriate when describing situations or behaviors where outcomes cannot be reliably foreseen.

  • The weather changed unpredictably, making it hard to plan outdoor activities
  • His mood shifts unpredictably, making him hard to work with

Examples of usage

  • Her work has been criticized for being inconsistently good.
  • He has been inconsistently following the rules.

Translations

Translations of the word "inconsistently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inconsistemente

🇮🇳 असंगत रूप से

🇩🇪 inkonsequent

🇮🇩 tidak konsisten

🇺🇦 непослідовно

🇵🇱 niespójnie

🇯🇵 不一致に

🇫🇷 inconsistamment

🇪🇸 inconsistentemente

🇹🇷 tutarsız bir şekilde

🇰🇷 일관성 없이

🇸🇦 بشكل غير متسق

🇨🇿 nekonzistentně

🇸🇰 nekonzistentne

🇨🇳 不一致地

🇸🇮 nedosledno

🇮🇸 ósamræmi

🇰🇿 тұрақсыз түрде

🇬🇪 არათანმიმდევრულად

🇦🇿 uyğunsuz şəkildə

🇲🇽 inconsistentemente

Etymology

The word 'inconsistently' is derived from the word 'inconsistent' which originated in the mid 18th century from the Latin word 'inconsistentem' meaning 'not standing together'. It has been used in the English language to describe something that does not remain the same in quality or behavior.

See also: inconsistent.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,392, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.