What is the Difference Between Consistent and Constant?

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The main difference between consistent and constant lies in their meanings and usage:

  • Consistent: This term refers to something that continues to happen, behaves or acts in the same manner, or maintains the same quality with each use. It emphasizes steadiness, stability, and unchanging behavior or standards. For example, consistent performance means that the performance remains the same or similar over time.
  • Constant: This term refers to something that continues to happen, remains unchanging, loyal, or faithful. It describes something that does not stop, though it may vary. For example, constant stress means that the stress is present all the time, even if its intensity may vary.

In summary, consistent means unchanging, while constant means unceasing. Consistent things may start and stop but do not vary, while constant things do not stop, though they may vary.

Comparative Table: Consistent vs Constant

Here is a table highlighting the difference between consistent and constant:

Term Meaning Usage
Consistent Doing something every time, without fail You breathe consistently, meaning you never stop breathing. You might get perfect scores on a math test consistently.
Constant Never stopping, continuing without interruption You breath constantly, meaning you never stop breathing.

The key difference between the two terms is that "consistent" refers to doing something regularly and without fail, while "constant" refers to something that never stops or continues without interruption.