What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contradiction
Example
His statement about being honest was in contradiction with his previous lies. [contradiction: noun]
Example
The two theories are in contradiction with each other. [contradiction: preposition]
inconsistency
Example
There is an inconsistency in the data that needs to be addressed. [inconsistency: noun]
Example
Her work has been inconsistent lately, and she needs to improve her performance. [inconsistent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inconsistency is more commonly used than contradiction in everyday language. Inconsistency is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contradiction is less common and often used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contradiction and inconsistency?
Contradiction is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while inconsistency is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
