Definition of conclusivenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word conclusive different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of conclusive are decisive, definitive, and determinative. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When would decisive be a good substitute for conclusive?

The words decisive and conclusive can be used in similar contexts, but decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

When could definitive be used to replace conclusive?

The meanings of definitive and conclusive largely overlap; however, definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

When might determinative be a better fit than conclusive?

While in some cases nearly identical to conclusive, determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of conclusive But the research isn’t conclusive. Adithi Ramakrishnan, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026 On the other hand, research on how strongly protein, red meat, saturated fat and dairy are linked with chronic disease risk is much less conclusive. Michael I Goran, The Conversation, 3 Feb. 2026 Florida law makes grand jury proceedings secret, so the silence isn’t conclusive. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 23 Jan. 2026 However, with the stock reaching new peaks and the story well recognized, is this the conclusive phase of a momentum chase or a sustainable revaluation? Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conclusive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conclusive
Adjective
  • Set the scene There’s a definitive vibe to Boudoir de Muses—one that’s romantic in an overt way, and unashamed of its provocative nature.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Gyourko and Glaeser don't offer definitive evidence for why many Sunbelt markets have begun to see lower rates of new housing development.
    Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 24 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • These four novels create a convincing, wrenching, kaleidoscopic picture of the range and repetitions of the most fatal kind of love; the sort of love that allows nothing else to grow around it, that eradicates all dignity; a love which, in order to be completed, must be told.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 Feb. 2026
  • The imitators are increasingly convincing, especially as AI image and video generators get better by the day.
    John Whyte, STAT, 17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The Crimson got goals from Samuel Biederwolf, Luke Steen, Jaden Roueche, Grady Kranz, Henry Miller, Matthew Johnson and Wyatt Kuznik in the decisive win.
    Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 19 Feb. 2026
  • The vote on Wednesday proved to be more decisive for Meyer.
    Andy McCullough, New York Times, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The bank admitted that regulatory action is an overhang but said the stock remains too compelling to ignore.
    Michael Bloom, CNBC, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Hicks was deferential to the Democratic candidates who have long served in public office and have compelling personal tales and the experience to take the helm of the state.
    Seema Mehta, Los Angeles Times, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • But the Airlines for American trade group, the military and the major general aviation groups that represent business jets and small plane owners backed a competing and more comprehensive House bill that was just introduced last week.
    Josh Funk, Los Angeles Times, 25 Feb. 2026
  • Francesco Risso, who helmed Marni after Castiglioni’s departure in 2016 through last year, took the brand in a more avant-garde, experimental direction.
    Nicole Phelps, Vogue, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Through the implementation of strong border policies, fentanyl trafficking across the southern border has been slashed in half, leading to fewer overdose deaths devastating American families.
    Gabe Evans, Denver Post, 25 Feb. 2026
  • The Kyrie opens with a strong D-major chord in the large orchestra that seems an obvious downbeat but turns out to be an upbeat.
    Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 41.
    Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 18 Feb. 2026
  • The waterfront escape offers 13 miles of hiking trails to pass the pre-sunset hours, with clear views across massive Oneida Lake once the astronomical fun begins.
    Stephanie Vermillion, Outside, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Between 1995 and 2010, CCM and its presidential candidates could win determinative vote shares while minimizing costly repression and fraud.
    Yonatan Morse, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025
  • But, ultimately, the president would not play a determinative role in interest rate decisions.
    Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 14 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Conclusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conclusive. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

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