inconstantly

Inconstantly is an adverb in English describing a manner that is not constant; it denotes irregular, variable, or intermittent behavior, condition, or characteristic. It can modify verbs to indicate a lack of constancy, as in changes that do not follow a fixed pattern. The related adjective inconstant means not constant or steadfast, and the adverb is formed by adding -ly to that adjective.

The word derives from in- (negation) + constant, with attestations in Middle and Early Modern English. It is historically connected to inconstant, and appears in older poetry and prose to signal variability rather than steadiness.

In modern English, inconstantly is relatively rare. Writers typically prefer words such as inconsistently, irregularly, intermittently, or variably, depending on context. When used, inconstantly can lend a formal or archaic tone.

Examples: The timetable changed inconstantly, sometimes daily and other times weekly. His support for the project shifted inconstantly, making it hard to predict his stance.

Related terms include inconstant (adjective), inconsistent, constant, and constancy. The concept is often discussed in relation to volatility, fickleness, and changeability.