What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
discrepant
Example
The results of the two experiments were discrepant. [discrepant: adjective]
Example
There was a discrepant amount of money in the account. [discrepant: adjective]
inconsistent
Example
His behavior towards me is inconsistent. [inconsistent: adjective]
Example
The results of the experiment were inconsistent with previous findings. [inconsistent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inconsistent is more commonly used than discrepant in everyday language. Inconsistent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while discrepant is less common and typically used in technical or scientific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between discrepant and inconsistent?
Discrepant is more formal than inconsistent. It is often used in academic or technical writing, while inconsistent can be used in both formal and informal contexts.