Inconstancy: meaning, definitions and examples

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inconstancy

 

[ ˌɪnkənˈstænsi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

emotions

The quality of being unpredictable or fickle.

Synonyms

fickleness, instability, unpredictability.

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Word Description / Examples
inconstancy

This word is often used in more formal or literary contexts to describe a lack of reliability or commitment, especially in relationships or loyalty.

  • His inconstancy in friendships made it hard to trust him
  • The inconstancy of her love was evident in her changing affections
unpredictability

This word is often used to describe situations, actions, or people who can't be easily anticipated, often in neutral to slightly negative contexts.

  • The weather's unpredictability makes it hard to plan outdoor events
  • His unpredictability makes him a challenging person to work with
fickleness

Fickleness is usually used to describe someone who frequently changes their mind or loyalty, often seen in a negative light. It is common in casual or everyday speech.

  • Her fickleness drove everyone crazy since she could never stick to one decision
  • Fickleness can be frustrating in a leader
instability

This term is more broadly applied to various situations like emotional states, political situations, or structures. It can have both formal and informal usages.

  • Political instability often leads to economic challenges
  • His emotional instability made it difficult for him to form lasting relationships

Examples of usage

  • She was known for her inconstancy, never sticking to one decision for long.
  • His inconstancy in relationships made it difficult for him to maintain friendships.
  • The inconstancy of the weather in this region is well documented.
  • The inconstancy of his moods made it hard to know how he would react.
  • The inconstancy of her feelings towards him left him confused.

Translations

Translations of the word "inconstancy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inconstância

🇮🇳 अस्थिरता

🇩🇪 Unbeständigkeit

🇮🇩 ketidakstabilan

🇺🇦 непостійність

🇵🇱 niestałość

🇯🇵 不定 (ふてい)

🇫🇷 inconstance

🇪🇸 inconstancia

🇹🇷 kararsızlık

🇰🇷 변덕 (byeondeok)

🇸🇦 عدم الثبات

🇨🇿 nestálost

🇸🇰 nestálosť

🇨🇳 不稳定性 (bù wěndìngxìng)

🇸🇮 nestanovitost

🇮🇸 óstöðugleiki

🇰🇿 тұрақсыздық

🇬🇪 მNestanovitost

🇦🇿 qeyri-sabitlik

🇲🇽 inconstancia

Etymology

The word 'inconstancy' originated from the Latin word 'inconstantia', which is derived from the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'constantia' (steadfastness). The concept of inconstancy has been explored in various literary works and philosophical discussions, often highlighting the human tendency to change or shift unpredictably. The theme of inconstancy can be found in themes of love, relationships, and emotions, reflecting the complexities of human nature.

See also: constantly, inconstant, inconstantly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,295, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.