consistent

/kənˈsɪstənt/

Say it: kun-SIS-tunt

1. adjective Acting or done in the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate.
Her consistent effort in practice was the key to her success in the championship.
2. adjective In agreement or compatible with something else; not contradictory.
The witness's statement was not consistent with the physical evidence.
3. adjective Containing elements that do not contradict one another; logically coherent.
He presented a consistent argument that was difficult to refute.

📖 Seen in the wild

Her consistent effort led to significant improvement in her grades.
collected by @vocablast

✏️ consistent in a sentence

The report found that the company had not been consistent in applying its own safety regulations.
To get the promotion, you'll need to show consistent results over the next two quarters.
Her story isn't consistent; she told me she was at home, but she told you she was at the library.
The philosopher's later works were not always consistent with his earlier, more radical theories.
She's a very consistent player who rarely makes unforced errors.
It's important to be consistent with discipline so the children know what to expect.

🔁 Synonyms & antonyms

steady uniform dependable coherent regular unwavering persistent compatible

steady · implies a lack of fluctuation or interruption

uniform · emphasizes sameness in all parts or at all times

dependable · highlights reliability and trustworthiness in a person or thing

coherent · suggests logical connection and clarity, especially for arguments or ideas

Opposites: inconsistent, erratic, variable, contradictory, unpredictable

🌱 Where it comes from

The word 'consistent' comes from the Latin 'consistere', meaning 'to stand firm' or 'stand together'. It's formed from 'con-' (together) and 'sistere' (to cause to stand). The modern meaning evolved from this idea of things 'standing together' without falling into contradiction.

🧩 How it's used

Common patterns:

consistent effortconsistent performanceconsistent with the findingsremain consistenta consistent patternbroadly consistent

Pay attention to the prepositions used with 'consistent'. Use 'consistent with' to mean 'compatible with' (e.g., 'the data is consistent with our theory'). Use 'consistent in' to describe how someone does something (e.g., 'she is consistent in her approach'). Don't confuse 'consistent' with 'constant'. 'Constant' means nonstop, while 'consistent' means regular and unchanging in method or quality over time.

Word family: consistency, consistently, consist

💬 Quick answers

What does it mean to be a consistent person?

A consistent person acts in a predictable and reliable way over time. Their actions and beliefs do not contradict each other, making them dependable.

What is the difference between 'consistent' and 'constant'?

'Consistent' means something is done in the same way over time, while 'constant' means it happens without stopping. Consistent effort might be working hard every Monday, while constant effort is working hard without any breaks.

What does 'consistent with' mean?

The phrase 'consistent with' means 'in agreement with' or 'compatible with'. For instance, a suspect's alibi might be consistent with the timeline of events.

Is 'consistent' a positive word?

Generally, yes, as it implies reliability, fairness, and logical soundness. However, the quality itself is neutral, so someone can also be consistently late or consistently rude.

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