consistent equations: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Academic
Quick answer
What does “consistent equations” mean?
A set of equations in mathematics that have at least one solution.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A set of equations in mathematics that have at least one solution; there is no contradiction between them.
A system of equations that is solvable, meaning the equations describe conditions that can be simultaneously satisfied. In broader contexts, can metaphorically refer to a set of rules, principles, or statements that do not contradict each other and can logically coexist.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling of 'equations' is the same. Pronunciation of 'consistent' may show minor vowel quality differences.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Used with equal frequency in academic/technical contexts in both BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “consistent equations” in a Sentence
[Subject: The system/These equations] are consistent.To check/find/determine if [equations] are consistent.A set of consistent equations [verb: has/exists].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “consistent equations” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The system was found to be consistent.
- We need to check if the equations consistent.
American English
- The model needs to consistent with the data.
- Do those figures consistent?
adverb
British English
- The data was consistently recorded.
- He argued his point consistently.
American English
- She consistently arrives on time.
- The team played consistently well.
adjective
British English
- A consistent set of measurements is crucial.
- Her argument was logically consistent.
American English
- We require consistent results across all trials.
- He is a consistent performer.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in data analytics or modelling, e.g., 'The financial model relies on a set of consistent equations.'
Academic
Primary context. Used in mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science textbooks and lectures.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would only be used when discussing homework or a technical problem.
Technical
Very common in technical writing, proofs, and problem-solving discussions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “consistent equations”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “consistent equations”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “consistent equations”
- Using 'consistent' to mean 'the same' or 'unchanging' in this context (e.g., 'They are consistent equations' meaning 'They are identical equations').
- Treating it as a general adjective-noun pair rather than a fixed technical term.
- Misspelling as 'consistant equations'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. In this technical phrase, 'consistent' specifically means the equations can all be true at the same time (they have a common solution). They are often different from each other.
Primarily, yes. Its core meaning is mathematical. It can be used metaphorically in logic, philosophy, or systems design to describe non-contradictory rules or statements.
Graphically, if the lines they represent intersect (at one or infinitely many points), they are consistent. Algebraically, you try to solve them; if you get a logical truth (like 0=0), they are consistent; if you get a contradiction (like 5=0), they are inconsistent.
Typically, we talk about a *system* or *set* of equations being consistent. A single equation is trivially consistent if it has a solution, but the term is rarely applied in isolation.
Consistent equations is usually technical / academic in register.
Consistent equations: in British English it is pronounced /kənˈsɪstənt ɪˈkweɪʒənz/, and in American English it is pronounced /kənˈsɪstənt ɪˈkweɪʒənz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(No common idioms use this precise phrase)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'CONSISTent' kitchen: all the recipes (equations) work together and you can make a meal (find a solution). If they were inconsistent, you'd be told to bake and fry the same ingredient at the same time – impossible!
Conceptual Metaphor
AGREEMENT / HARMONY (Equations are like people in agreement; their statements don't fight). PUZZLE PIECES THAT FIT (The equations interlock to form a complete, solvable picture).
Practice
Quiz
What is the opposite of 'consistent equations'?