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Webster 1913 Edition


Inconsistent

Inˊcon-sist′ent

,
Adj.
[Pref.
in-
not +
consistent
: cf. F.
inconsistant
.]
1.
Not consistent; showing inconsistency; irreconcilable; contradictory, or having contradictory implications; discordant; at variance, esp. as regards character, sentiment, or action; incompatible; incongruous.
Compositions of this nature . . . show that wisdom and virtue are far from being
inconsistent
with politeness and good humor.
Addison.
2.
Not exhibiting uniformity of sentiment, steadiness to principle, etc.; unequal; fickle; changeable.
Syn. – Incompatible; incongruous; irreconcilable; discordant; repugnant; contradictory.
Inconsistent
,
Incongruous
,
Incompatible
. Things are incongruous when they are not suited to each other, so that their union is unbecoming; inconsistent when they are opposed to each other, so as render it improper or wrong; incompatible when they can not coexist, and it is therefore impossible to unite them. Habitual levity of mind is incongruous with the profession of a clergyman; it is inconsistent with his ordination vows; it is incompatible with his permanent usefulness. Incongruity attaches to the modes and qualities of things; incompatibility attaches to their essential attributes; inconsistency attaches to the actions, sentiments, etc., of men.

Webster 1828 Edition


Inconsistent

INCONSIST'ENT

,
Adj.
Incompatible; incongruous; not suitable. Loud laughter in grave company is inconsistent with good breeding. Habitual gloom is inconsistent with health and happiness.
1.
Not consistent; contrary, so that one infers the negation or destruction of the other; or so that the truth of one proves the other to be false. Two covenants, one that a man shall have an estate in fee, and the other that he shall hold it for years, are inconsistent.
2.
Not uniform; being contrary at different times. Men are sometimes inconsistent with themselves.

Definition 2024


inconsistent

inconsistent

English

Adjective

inconsistent (comparative more inconsistent, superlative most inconsistent)

  1. not consistent

Translations

Anagrams


Catalan

Etymology

in- + consistent

Adjective

inconsistent m, f (masculine and feminine plural inconsistents)

  1. inconsistent