inconclusive

adjective

in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv How to pronounce inconclusive (audio)
-ziv
: leading to no conclusion or definite result
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
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.
Initial attempts to identify the species of the animals were inconclusive and the remains were sent to a specialized facility for further analysis and DNA testing. Harry Harris, Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2025 Trust your gut, particularly when data is inconclusive or incomplete. Aslak De Silva, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 And the evidence that was tested was either inconclusive or ruled Wood out. Amanda Lee Myers, USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2025 An autopsy performed Saturday was inconclusive on how a 30-year-old man died after his lifeless body was found on a Near North Side street early that day, according to authorities. William Lee, Chicago Tribune, 12 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inconclusive

Word History

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inconclusive was in 1707

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Cite this Entry

“Inconclusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inconclusive. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

inconclusive

adjective
in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv How to pronounce inconclusive (audio)
-ziv
: not leading to a definite conclusion or result
inconclusive evidence
inconclusively adverb
inconclusiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inconclusive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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