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

Clinicians found real value in cases involving subtle fractures in the knees, feet and other extremities, where conventional X-ray findings were inconclusive or missed the fracture altogether. — Erez Meltzer, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

There are plenty of well-meaning people and experts posting content everyday, but both professors noted that even that material may be misleading, inconclusive or overly generalized. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026

She was also asked to submit to a polygraph, the results of which were inconclusive, according to the suit. — Amber Gaudet updated August 20, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026

An autopsy commissioned by the Wells family was ruled inconclusive citing a lack of evidence, while the state’s autopsy report is sealed pending review by a grand jury. — Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 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