Translation guide
Describes something that does not stay the same in quality, behavior, or logic. Japanese expressions vary depending on whether you mean contradictory, variable, or unreliable.
When statements, ideas, or actions conflict with each other or with previous ones.
The most direct and common way to say something is logically inconsistent or contradictory. Often used for statements, arguments, or actions that don't align.
His explanation is inconsistent.
That policy is inconsistent.
Literally 'lacks consistency'. Used for behavior, quality, or performance that is not uniform over time.
His behavior is inconsistent.
Means 'doesn't add up' or 'incoherent'. Used when a story, alibi, or logic has gaps or contradictions.
His story is inconsistent.
When something is not stable or reliable in its level, such as work quality, sports performance, or product standards.
Means 'unstable' or 'not steady'. Commonly used for performance, quality, or conditions that fluctuate.
His grades are inconsistent.
The taste at this restaurant is inconsistent.
Colloquial expression meaning 'uneven' or 'patchy'. Often used for skills, effort, or quality that varies from time to time.
His play is inconsistent.
Means 'there is variation' or 'scatter'. Used for data, measurements, or product quality that is not uniform.
There is inconsistency in product quality.
When a person or system does not follow through consistently, such as being late, changing rules, or failing to meet expectations.
Means 'unreliable' or 'cannot be counted on'. Used for people, information, or things that are not dependable.
He is inconsistent (unreliable).
Colloquial phrase meaning 'what someone says changes constantly'. Implies inconsistency in statements or decisions.
My boss is inconsistent in what he says.
矛盾している implies a direct contradiction between two things (A and not A). 一貫性がない means lack of uniformity over time or across instances, without necessarily a logical contradiction.
His argument is contradictory.
His arguments are inconsistent (vary from time to time).
The English word 'inconsistent' covers many nuances. Direct translations like 不一致 (ふいっち) are rarely used in natural Japanese. Choose the expression that matches the specific meaning.