internal inconsistency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "internal inconsistency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there are contradictions or discrepancies within a single system, argument, or set of statements. Example: "The report was criticized for its internal inconsistency, as the data presented contradicted the conclusions drawn."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

(Possible defeaters might include internal inconsistency, inconsistency with accepted theory, or the existence of a (clearly superior) rival analogical argument).

SEP

The internal inconsistency in goals and benefits within the management board would then become even more prominent.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

However, there was no difference in the quite marked levels of internal inconsistency observed in both frames.

Social Science & Medicine

But although relativistic conservatives accept socially prevalent valuations, revising them piecemeal on the basis of internal inconsistency or impracticality, non-relativistic conservatives might deny that value can be quantified at all.

SEP

The objectives of the study are (1) to test whether standard gamble values vary when structurally identical gambles are differentially framed, and (2) to test whether the standard gamble is equally prone to internal inconsistency across the two frames.

Social Science & Medicine

Moreover, a number of researchers have demonstrated that the standard gamble is prone to internal inconsistency, and loss aversion has been proposed as an explanation for this observed bias.

Social Science & Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Mr. Cohen, appearing today on NBC's "Meet the Press," said Mr. Bush's proposals contained "internal inconsistencies".

The New York Times

It would also include study of the client's data to find internal inconsistencies.

The New York Times

Beyond these internal inconsistencies, the two-track policy suffers from a misreading of Iranian history.

The New York Times

"There are internal inconsistencies not only in his statements, but also compared to what eyewitnesses and other officers say".

The New York Times

Another Microsoft lawyer, Steven Holley, said outside the courthouse later that "comment on the form" meant looking for typographical errors and "internal inconsistencies" in the government plan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "internal inconsistency", ensure that you clearly identify the specific elements within the subject that are contradictory or incompatible. Providing concrete examples will strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on obvious contradictions. "Internal inconsistencies" can be subtle and require careful analysis to uncover. Pay attention to underlying assumptions and implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "internal inconsistency" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the presence of contradictory elements within a system, argument, or statement. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "internal inconsistency" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that identifies contradictory elements within a system, argument, or statement. Ludwig AI validates its usage across various contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedias. While the register tends towards neutral to formal, being particularly prevalent in academic and professional spheres, its aim is typically to critique or challenge the validity of something by highlighting flaws and contradictions. When using this phrase, clarify the specific elements contributing to the inconsistency for better clarity. Related phrases include "internal contradiction", "logical fallacy", and "lack of coherence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

internal contradiction

Focuses more on the direct opposition of ideas or statements within something.

logical fallacy

Refers specifically to errors in reasoning that undermine the validity of an argument, a type of "internal inconsistency".

self-contradiction

Emphasizes that the inconsistency exists within itself, without external influence.

inherent contradiction

Stresses that the contradiction is a fundamental part of the nature of something.

lack of coherence

Highlights the absence of a logical or consistent relationship between parts.

discrepancy

Points out a difference or variance, which can lead to an "internal inconsistency".

conflict of ideas

Focuses on the opposition of different thoughts or concepts within a framework.

incongruity

Suggests a mismatch or lack of harmony, contributing to "internal inconsistency".

paradox

Implies a statement that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper truth.

anomaly

Indicates a deviation from the norm or expectation, which could reveal an "internal inconsistency".

FAQs

How can I use "internal inconsistency" in a sentence?

You can use "internal inconsistency" to describe flaws in arguments or systems. For example: "The judge pointed out the "internal inconsistency" within the witness's testimony."

What's the difference between "internal inconsistency" and "external inconsistency"?

"Internal inconsistency" refers to contradictions within a system or argument itself, while "external inconsistency" refers to contradictions between the system/argument and outside information or evidence.

What are some signs of "internal inconsistency" in a theory?

Signs of "internal inconsistency" include contradictory statements, conflicting assumptions, or conclusions that don't logically follow from the premises. Watch out for cases in which the theory contradicts itself.

What can I say instead of "internal inconsistency"?

You can use alternatives like "self-contradiction", "logical fallacy", or "lack of coherence" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.