C1noun2K

Consistency

UK /["/kənˈsɪstənsi/"]/US /["/kənˈsɪstənsi/"]/

Definition

the quality of always behaving in the same way or of having the same opinions, standard, etc.; the quality of being consistent

In simple words: The quality of always behaving the same way or doing the same thing.

Examples

  • The key to success in painting is consistency in brush strokes.
  • Her consistency in submitting reports on time has earned her a promotion.
  • Consistency of the batter is crucial when baking a cake to ensure it rises properly.
  • The recipe requires a consistency of the dough that is neither too soft nor too hard.
  • Athletes need consistency in their training regimen to improve performance.
  • The consistency of his argument made it very convincing to the jury.
  • The software’s data consistency prevents errors during processing.

Usage notes

Use 'consistency' when discussing reliability or regularity in behavior, work, or results. It’s appropriate in both personal and professional contexts, but may sound overly formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'consistency' as 'constant city' — a place where things never change.

Collocations

  • absolute
  • complete
  • good
  • degree
  • level
  • demonstrate
  • show
  • achieve
  • consistency in
  • consistency of
  • consistency with
  • thick
  • thin
  • soft
  • have
  • give

Synonyms

  • uniformity
  • steadiness
  • reliability
  • constancy
  • coherence

Antonyms

  • inconsistency
  • irregularity
  • variability

Common mistakes

  • Omitting the subject when discussing consistency in specific situations.
  • Confusing consistency with related but distinct concepts like 'continuity' or 'uniformity'.
  • Using 'consistent' as a noun instead of the correct form 'consistency'.