Which term refers to the consistency with which speech patterns are produced?

Fluency refers to the smoothness and consistency of speech patterns, including the ability to produce sounds and words without interruptions or hesitations. When speech is fluent, it flows naturally, allowing for effective communication without excessive pauses, repetitions, or unusual breaks in rhythm. Fluency is an essential aspect of verbal communication as it impacts the listener's comprehension and the overall effectiveness of the message being conveyed. In contrast, proficiency generally pertains to the skill level in a language rather than the consistency of speech production, while clarity focuses more on how clearly the speech is understood, and rhythm relates to the timing and pace of speech rather than its consistency.