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

His attorneys argued that the evidence was inconclusive and that he was singled out because of his ultra-conservative Muslim beliefs. —Eric Tucker, Arkansas Online, 7 Feb. 2026

These sometimes inconclusive, even paradoxical findings may be partly explained by the nature of the sport. —Dan England, Outside, 5 Feb. 2026

While an injury study may be inconclusive, what is conclusive is that despite some pleas to not add games, the schedule will grow. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Feb. 2026

Prosecutors rejected those findings as inconclusive. —Gregory Royal Pratt, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 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