inconclusive

adjective

Definition of inconclusivenext
as in erroneous
not showing that something is certainly true The results of the test proved inconclusive. an inconclusive argument

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of inconclusive An inconclusive ballistics result is not uncommon, as the analysis depends on the size and condition of the bullet fragments recovered. — Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 6 July 2026 Young said another growing area of interest is hair health as early findings suggest copper peptides may help enlarge hair follicles, prolong the hair-growth cycle and improve scalp circulation, though such research is inconclusive and ongoing. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 13 June 2026 While many acknowledge the historical evidence connecting Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, there are some descendants who believe the evidence presented does not prove paternity with absolute certainty and is therefore inconclusive. — Briana Stewart, ABC News, 4 July 2026 Duckett’s attorneys this spring said an evidentiary hearing was needed after DNA tests conducted in March — ones not available at the time of their client’s arrest decades ago — and the results reviewed by a second lab last month showed inconclusive results as to whether Duckett’s DNA was present. — Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for inconclusive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inconclusive
  1. erroneous
  2. inaccurate
  3. incorrect
  4. flawed
  5. misleading
  6. wrong
Adjective
  • In addition, the trial judge gave the jury erroneous instructions, the appeals court ruled.
    — David Hilzenrath, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • But such fine evidence of the erroneous human touch in the publishing process is, of course, cherished by collectors of this day.
    — Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Definition of erroneous
Adjective
  • The ruling said Durnell’s claim would require a warning that the EPA did not require – but information counter to EPA’s conclusions is by definition inaccurate.
    — Sarah J. Morath, The Conversation, 2 July 2026
  • They’re also designed to be agreeable and can reinforce a user’s beliefs, even if those beliefs are inaccurate.
    — Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Definition of inaccurate
Adjective
  • Released Parties are also not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by site users, tampering, hacking, or by any equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Giveaway.
    — AJC.com, AJC.com, 30 June 2026
  • At the same time, The New York Times reported that Google’s AI Overviews produced incorrect answers roughly one in 10 times.
    — John Davie, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Definition of incorrect
Adjective
  • Instead of doubling down on a flawed system, policymakers can make gradual changes by introducing new tax categories in the existing framework and imposing taxes that correspond to the alcoholic content of that category.
    — Adam Hoffer, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • The company says the claims contain flawed conclusions and rejects the characterization of the technology as a botnet.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Definition of flawed
Adjective
  • Democrats on the House Natural Resources Committee released a report this week criticizing the president and Freedom 250, accusing it of diverting funds and misleading sponsors.
    — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 3 July 2026
  • The charge alleges a person knowingly defrauded another by using false or misleading information to obtain money, property, credit or a loan.
    — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of misleading
Adjective
  • Critics, and even some supporters, said Soto-Martínez was making his move at the wrong time.
    — Melissa Gomez, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
  • That could always be wrong, of course, but at least that’s the garage talk heading into the weekend.
    — Jess Bryant, New York Times, 4 July 2026
Definition of wrong

Browse Nearby Words

in concert
inconclusive
inconclusiveness
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Cite this Entry

“Inconclusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inconclusive. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on inconclusive

Nglish: Translation of inconclusive for Spanish Speakers

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