was consistent with

USAGE SUMMARY

"was consistent with" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is in agreement with another thing or statement. For example, "The results of the experiment were consistent with the hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That result was consistent with recent experience.

The New York Times

It was consistent with Lane's trajectory.

The New York Times

It was consistent with the first two.

The New York Times - Health

"It was consistent with the philosophy.

The New York Times

This was consistent with his personal background.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was consistent with Ali's looks.

The New Yorker

His account was consistent with many others.

Princeton University

"This result was consistent with that".

The New York Times

This result was consistent with previous findings14.

Nature

That finding was consistent with prior research.

The Washington Post

This move was consistent with previous elections.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was consistent with", ensure that the elements being compared are clearly defined and that the relationship between them is explicitly stated. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid implying that "was consistent with" indicates a causal relationship. Consistency suggests alignment or agreement, not direct cause and effect. For instance, saying 'The increase in sales was consistent with the marketing campaign' doesn't prove the campaign caused the increase; it only suggests they align.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was consistent with" functions as a linking phrase, establishing a relationship of agreement or alignment between two elements. Ludwig examples show it connecting observations to theories, results to expectations, and actions to policies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was consistent with" is a versatile linking phrase frequently used to denote agreement, alignment, or compatibility between different elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, from scientific research to news reporting. While it's essential to avoid implying causation, using this phrase effectively can enhance the clarity and coherence of your writing. Consider using alternatives like "aligned with" or "corresponded to" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aligned with

This alternative uses a more direct verb, implying a closer match or arrangement.

corresponded to

This suggests a direct relationship or matching characteristic.

was in agreement with

This option emphasizes the state of being in accord or harmony.

was compatible with

This indicates the ability to exist or function together without conflict.

harmonized with

Implies a pleasant or congruent arrangement, often used in less formal contexts.

concurred with

Suggests agreement, often in an official or formal setting.

was in accordance with

This formal phrase highlights adherence to a set of rules or principles.

bore out

This phrasal verb signifies confirmation or validation of something.

tally with

This informal option implies a counting or checking process resulting in matching numbers.

checked out with

A colloquial expression signifying verification and agreement with facts or standards.

FAQs

How can I use "was consistent with" in a sentence?

Use "was consistent with" to indicate that something aligns or agrees with something else, such as "The experimental data "was consistent with" the theoretical model".

What are some alternatives to "was consistent with"?

Alternatives include phrases like "aligned with", "corresponded to", or "was in agreement with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "was consistent with" to imply causation?

No, "was consistent with" indicates alignment or agreement, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Use causal language like "resulted from" or "was caused by" to express causation.

What's the difference between "was consistent with" and "was identical to"?

"Was consistent with" suggests agreement or alignment, while "was identical to" implies an exact match. Use "was consistent with" when things are in agreement but not necessarily the same, and "was identical to" when they are exactly the same.