plain inconsistency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "plain inconsistency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or argument that is clearly contradictory or lacks coherence. Example: "The report was filled with plain inconsistency, making it difficult to trust the conclusions drawn."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This apparent inconsistency might be derived from the fact that total water intake in the American sample was computed on the basis of a 24 h recall of intake, and plain water data were extrapolated from a food frequency question.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

The basic version (sometimes labelled "naïve") of the HD notion of confirmation can be spelled out thus: Note that clause (ii) above represents HD-disconfirmation as plain logical inconsistency of the target hypothesis with the data (given the auxiliaries) (see Hempel 1945, 98).

SEP

He is voting for more study by the experts, for more chance for the nominee to ex plain new inconsistencies lest they handicap his case in the final vote.

The New York Times

The encounter also gave Mr Blair a chance to make his case in plain English and highlight his critics' inconsistencies.

The Economist

In order to keep McCain in the game, the mainstream media -- McCain's 'base' -- will not jump on him for repeated inconsistencies, gaffes and just plain stupidity.

Huffington Post

Only then could I see the loopholes in the texture of his tales, the inconsistencies and contradictions and the plain bullshit.

The New Yorker

We did a network meta-analysis of closed loop plain balloons, drug coated balloons, and drug eluting stents (13 trials; 2417 patients) to reduce the inconsistency arising from indirect evidence.

British Medical Journal

Brazilians point out the inconsistencies in American tariffs and charge that the levies on juice are protectionist, plain and simple, just like similar duties imposed on rolled steel, shoes and other goods from Brazil.

The New York Times

Holy inconsistency!

The New York Times - Books

Inconsistency did.

The New York Times - Sports

Arsenal's inconsistency continues.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "plain inconsistency" when you want to emphasize the straightforward and easily discernible nature of a contradiction, rather than its complexity or subtlety.

Common error

While "plain inconsistency" is valid, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "clear contradiction" or "obvious discrepancy" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plain inconsistency" functions as a noun phrase where "plain" acts as an adjective modifying "inconsistency". It describes the quality of the inconsistency, emphasizing its obviousness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plain inconsistency" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a contradiction or lack of coherence that is easily noticeable. While not exceedingly frequent, Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in various contexts, particularly in news and media. Its purpose is to emphasize the obviousness of the contradiction. When writing, ensure the context clearly establishes the conflicting elements, and consider varying your language with synonyms to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear contradiction

Replaces "plain" with "clear", emphasizing the obvious nature of the contradiction.

obvious inconsistency

Substitutes "plain" with "obvious", highlighting the easily noticeable nature of the inconsistency.

evident discrepancy

Replaces both words to emphasize the readily apparent difference or divergence.

blatant contradiction

Uses "blatant" instead of "plain" to suggest a more flagrant or shameless inconsistency.

manifest incoherence

Emphasizes a lack of logical connection that is openly displayed.

simple contradiction

Highlights the uncomplicated nature of the inconsistency.

unmistakable inconsistency

Indicates that the inconsistency cannot be misunderstood or overlooked.

palpable incongruity

Highlights an inconsistency that is easily sensed or felt.

naked inconsistency

Implies that the inconsistency is bare and unconcealed.

sheer inconsistency

Emphasizes the pure and unadulterated nature of the inconsistency.

FAQs

What does "plain inconsistency" mean?

The phrase "plain inconsistency" refers to a contradiction or lack of coherence that is obvious and easily noticeable.

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

You might say, "The report was filled with "plain inconsistency", making it difficult to trust the conclusions drawn."

What can I say instead of "plain inconsistency"?

You can use alternatives like "clear contradiction", "obvious inconsistency", or "evident discrepancy" depending on the context.

Is "plain inconsistency" a formal phrase?

The phrase "plain inconsistency" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, consider using more precise vocabulary to describe the specific nature of the contradiction.