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 While a number of studies have shown that excessive social media use harms children, some mental health professionals argue the evidence is inconclusive and that there’s no proof warning labels work. Byalexandra Sternlicht, Fortune, 19 June 2024 An initial autopsy was inconclusive pending further study. Ellen Moynihan, New York Daily News, 13 May 2024 The Washington Post reported the X-ray was inconclusive in determining when the injury occurred. Shaylee Ragar, NPR, 5 June 2024 And yet her claims to greatness are inconclusive, perhaps because so many of the significant achievements of her tenure have come with a darker underside. Constanze Stelzenmüller, Foreign Affairs, 20 Apr. 2021 See all Example Sentences for inconclusive 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inconclusive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 7 Jul. 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
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