inconstancy
/in'kɔnstənsi/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The quality of being changeable and variable: The state or characteristic of not remaining the same in behavior, opinion, or condition; fickleness.
- Unfaithfulness by virtue of being unreliable or treacherous: The quality of being disloyal or not steadfast, especially in personal relationships or duties.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The inconstancy of the weather made planning the outdoor event difficult.
- She was hurt by his emotional inconstancy; one day he was affectionate, the next he was distant.
- Historical records show the inconstancy of political alliances during that period.
Advanced Usage
- "Inconstancy of fortune": Refers to the unpredictable and changing nature of luck or success.
- The novel explores the inconstancy of fortune in the lives of its characters.
- "Moral inconstancy": Describes a lack of firmness or consistency in ethical principles.
- The leader was criticized for his moral inconstancy on key issues.
Variants and Related Words
- Inconstant (adj): Not staying the same, especially in affection, loyalty, or opinion; fickle.
- He proved to be an inconstant friend.
- Constancy (n): The quality of being unchanging and dependable; faithfulness. (This is the direct antonym).
- Her constancy was a source of great comfort.
Synonyms
- Fickleness: The quality of being changeable, especially in loyalties or affections.
- Instability: Lack of stability; the tendency to change or be unpredictable.
- Unreliability: The quality of not being able to be trusted or depended on.
Antonyms
- Constancy: The quality of being faithful and dependable.
- Steadfastness: Firm and unwavering loyalty or commitment.
- Stability: The state of being steady and not likely to change.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- "As changeable as the moon": An idiom describing someone or something that is very inconstant or variable. (Note: This idiom uses a related concept, not the exact word "inconstancy").
- His moods are as changeable as the moon.
Noun
- the quality of being changeable and variable
- unfaithfulness by virtue of being unreliable or treacherous