conclusive

adjective

con·​clu·​sive kən-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

1

: of, relating to, or being a conclusion

2

: putting an end to debate or question especially by reason of irrefutability

The results were not conclusive.

conclusively adverb

conclusiveness noun

Synonyms

• definitive
• decisive
• last
• clear
• determinative

Choose the Right Synonym for conclusive

conclusive, decisive, determinative, definitive mean bringing to an end.

conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

Examples of conclusive in a Sentence

the archeological discovery was conclusive proof that the Vikings had indeed settled in North America around 1000 A.D.

a conclusive argument for allowing the students to put on a play of their own choosing

Recent Examples on the Web

First, as Paul points out, laboratory tests may not be conclusive or may appear normal, even when the patient is clearly experiencing abnormal symptoms. —Elizabeth Yuko, Flow Space, 7 July 2025

Replay seemed to show LeMahieu getting in under Sánchez’s tag, but a lack of conclusive evidence led to the original call being upheld after a review. —Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 21 June 2025

So far, no conclusive evidence shows that naps themselves lead directly to an increase in mortality, according to Walia. —Brian Mastroianni, Health, 19 June 2025

Broadcasters and streamers prefer to use 28-day figures, which provide a more conclusive overview. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 18 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see conclude

First Known Use

1536, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for conclusive

• abusive
• allusive
• collusive
• conducive
• delusive
• diffusive
• elusive
• exclusive
• extrusive
• illusive
• inclusive
• intrusive

Kids Definition

conclusive

adjective

con·​clu·​sive kən-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

: decisive sense 1, convincing

conclusive proof

conclusively adverb

conclusiveness noun

Legal Definition

conclusive

adjective

con·​clu·​sive

1

: of, relating to, or being a conclusion

2

: putting an end to debate or question especially by reason of inability to be refuted

conclusively adverb

conclusiveness noun