inconclusive

adjective

in·​con·​clu·​sive ˌin-kən-ˈklü-siv 

-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

There are some studies on the validity of astrology and the chakras—though those are fairly inconclusive—but human design is a newer offshoot. —Julia Ries Wexler, SELF, 14 Oct. 2025

Findings on one issue — the leaking of closed meeting information to the public — remain inconclusive because the investigation could not trace the source of the leaks. —Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2025

Research on GLP-1s for Parkinson’s disease has been inconclusive. —Becky Upham, EverydayHealth.com, 8 Oct. 2025

The inconclusive elections that followed brought anything but, with both the right and left winning consecutive rounds of voting, leading to a power struggle and political deadlock that has continued ever since. —Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2025

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