inconclusive

adjective

in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv How to pronounce inconclusive (audio)
-ziv
: leading to no conclusion or definite result
inconclusive evidence
an inconclusive argument
inconclusively adverb
inconclusiveness noun

Examples of inconclusive in a Sentence

The results of the test were inconclusive. The first two rounds of the boxing match were inconclusive.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The health effects of gender-affirming care are inconclusive. Ge Bai, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 The findings are inconclusive; Robbie’s teeth seem bigger and whiter, but she’s had the same small knick in one lateral incisor since early adulthood. Emma Alpern, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2024 As such, its results were inconclusive, the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy says in a Facebook post. Olatunji Osho-Williams, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Oct. 2024 Many nations and some private companies seed clouds, but candidly, the scientific literature has long been inconclusive about its effectiveness. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes, 12 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inconclusive 

Word History

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inconclusive was in 1707

Dictionary Entries Near inconclusive

Cite this Entry

“Inconclusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inconclusive. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

inconclusive

adjective
in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv How to pronounce inconclusive (audio)
-ziv
: not leading to a definite conclusion or result
inconclusive evidence
inconclusively adverb
inconclusiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inconclusive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!