Definify.com
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.
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.