inconsistent

Adjective

WordNet 3.0

Adjective (3)

displaying a lack of consistency“inconsistent statements cannot both be true at the same time”“inconsistent with the roadmap”
not capable of being made consistent or harmonious“inconsistent accounts”
not in agreementSynonyms: discrepant

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Inconsistent \In`con*sist"ent\, a. [Pref. in- not + consistent: cf. F. inconsistant.] [1913 Webster]

1.Not consistent; showing inconsistency; irreconcilable; contradictory, or having contradictory implications; discordant; at variance, esp. as regards character, sentiment, or action; incompatible; incongruous. [1913 Webster]

Compositions of this nature . . . show that wisdom and virtue are far from being inconsistent with politeness and good humor.— Addison.[1913 Webster]

2.Not exhibiting uniformity of sentiment, steadiness to principle, etc.; unequal; fickle; changeable. [1913 Webster]

Ah, how unjust to nature, and himself, Is thoughtless, thankless, inconsistent man.— Young.

Syn: Incompatible; incongruous; irreconcilable; discordant; repugnant; contradictory.

Usage: 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. [1913 Webster]