In`con*sist"ent (?), a. [Pref. in-
not + consistent: cf. F. inconsistant.]
1. Not consistent; showing inconsistency;
irreconcilable; discordant; at variance, esp. as regards character,
sentiment, or action; incompatible; incongruous;
contradictory.
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.
Ah, how unjust to nature, and himself,
Is thoughtless, thankless, inconsistent man.
Young.
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.
