are consistent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are consistent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that remains the same over time or does not change, often in the context of data, behavior, or principles. Example: "The results of the experiment are consistent with our initial hypothesis, indicating that our theory may be valid."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"My numbers are consistent.

The New York Times - Sports

Their stories are consistent.

The New York Times

The formats are consistent.

Harvard Business Review

The motives are consistent too.

The Economist

Things in Cleveland are consistent.

The Guardian

All the circumstances are consistent with suicide.

Independent

Other bruises are consistent with violent assault.

Independent

The results are consistent.

Composite Structures

Leading indicators are consistent with softening ahead.

The Guardian - Business

The data are consistent with national numbers.

The New York Times

These comments are consistent with industry reports.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are consistent", ensure that the subjects being compared genuinely exhibit a pattern of agreement or uniformity across different instances or perspectives. For instance, "The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical predictions."

Common error

Avoid using "are consistent" when the relationship between the compared elements is unclear or poorly defined. For example, instead of saying "The data are consistent", specify what the data are consistent with, such as "The data are consistent with the previous findings."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are consistent" primarily functions as a copular verb phrase, linking a subject to a predicate adjective. It asserts that the subject possesses the quality of being in agreement, harmony, or conformity with something else. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are consistent" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote agreement, alignment, or conformity between different elements. According to Ludwig, the phrase is valid and usable. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, ranging from scientific research to news reporting. To ensure clarity, it's essential to specify what the subjects being compared are consistent with. Alternatives like "are consonant" or "are constant" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use the phrase "are consistent" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are consonant

This alternative emphasizes agreement or harmony, particularly in sound or ideas.

are constant

This alternative highlights the unchanging or stable nature of something.

are invariable

This alternative stresses the lack of variation or deviation.

are concordant

This option focuses on agreement or harmony, similar to "are consonant" but applicable in broader contexts.

are uniform

This suggests that items or processes are the same across the board.

are in agreement

This emphasizes the alignment or consensus between different elements.

are compatible

This highlights the ability of things to exist or work together without conflict.

are aligned

Implies that items or goals are directed towards a common point or purpose.

are congruous

Suggests a fitting or harmonious relationship between elements.

are coherent

This implies a logical and consistent connection of the parts.

FAQs

How can I use "are consistent" in a sentence?

You can use "are consistent" to describe situations where facts, results, or behaviors align or agree over time or across different instances. For example, "The research findings "are consistent" with earlier studies."

What are some alternatives to "are consistent"?

Alternatives to "are consistent" include "are consonant", "are constant", "are in agreement", or "are compatible", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are consistent with" or "are consistent to"?

"Are consistent with" is the correct and more common usage. "Are consistent to" is grammatically incorrect. Always use the preposition "with" to indicate what something aligns or agrees with.

What's the difference between saying something is "consistent" and saying it is "constant"?

"Consistent" implies agreement or alignment over multiple instances or perspectives, while "constant" implies unchanging over time. Something that is "consistent" may vary but follows a predictable pattern or aligns with other data. Something that is "constant" remains the same. "Are constant" signals steadiness.