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

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

The best evidence scientists had for the phenomenon was from magnetic signals recorded in ancient rocks, but those are sparse and inconclusive. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2026

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

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