inconclusive

adjective

in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

: 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

One spot about 15 feet below the edge of the cliff showed signs of a possible impact, but the finding was deemed inconclusive because of the time that had passed since Bernadette’s death. — Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 22 Sep. 2026

The likelihood and capability of AI’s destructive power is hotly debated and inconclusive. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 15 Sep. 2026

Martin also cautioned that the data are inconclusive about whether millennials can start businesses at the same rate other generations did. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026

But after the Englishman’s first start under the Portuguese, the evidence is, as ever, inconclusive. — Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inconclusive

• nonexclusive
• unobtrusive
• abusive
• allusive
• collusive
• conclusive
• conducive
• delusive
• diffusive
• elusive
• exclusive
• extrusive

Kids Definition

inconclusive

adjective

in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

: not leading to a definite conclusion or result

inconclusive evidence

inconclusively adverb

inconclusiveness noun