inconclusive

adjective

in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv How to pronounce inconclusive (audio)
-ziv
Synonyms of inconclusivenext
: leading to no conclusion or definite result
inconclusive test results
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.
Experts believe estrogen deficiency may play a direct role, but most studies that have looked at whether taking hormone therapy can reduce the risk have been small and inconclusive (though research in this area is ongoing). — Cheyenne Buckingham, Washington Post, 24 Oct. 2026 After teenage boys first reported that they had been abused in 2005, Church of the Resurrection conducted an internal investigation that court records show was inconclusive. — Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2026 New research, ancient myth All of the results from the most recent research project are, at the moment, still preliminary and inconclusive. — Eric Vanden Eykel, The Conversation, 6 Oct. 2026 Plus, testing can cause anxiety and stress — as patients wait for results and if the results are inconclusive. — Miami Herald, 6 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for inconclusive

See All Rhymes for inconclusive

Browse Nearby Words

in conclusion
inconclusive
inconcoct
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inconclusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inconclusive. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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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

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