OPEN-ENDED Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

open-ended

adjective

Definition of open-ended

as in unspecified

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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 open-ended Sanding that motivation down into a more kid-friendly and open-ended spectacle, this adaptation doesn’t broaden Orwell’s message so much as empty it. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 30 Apr. 2026 Holding back or keeping things open-ended slows momentum right now. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 28 Apr. 2026 Such walkouts frequently have a beginning and end date, but Local 99’s strike would be open-ended — which means school would be indefinitely closed by the three-union solidarity walkout. — Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026 Second, all events in the campaign are locked to specific car classes before first completion, which will be music to the ears of anyone who ever thought these games were too directionless and open-ended to invite any tension or purpose. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for open-ended

Recent Examples of Synonyms for open-ended

Adjective

The lawsuit also asks for unspecified damages and a jury trial.

— Martin Goillandeau, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026
Sikorsky Aircraft, which manufactures the helicopters known as Marine One when carrying the president, is paying an unspecified amount the White House estimated at $5 million for the helipad.

— Bart Jansen, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of unspecified

Adjective

Baltimore City passed a six-month moratorium in May, Harford County passed an indefinite ban in June, and Prince George’s and Montgomery counties both passed moratoriums in July.

— Jorge Aguilar, Baltimore Sun, 22 Aug. 2026
Excessive data gathering, lax access controls, indefinite retention, and insufficient governance all increase the impact of breaches.

— Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of indefinite

Adjective

Thin straps also wrapped around the musician’s ankles, secured in place with adjustable buckle closures that kept the shoes secure.

— Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 23 Aug. 2026
People can adjust their sprinkler’s spread, Howarth said, or pay to replace their sprinkler heads with adjustable heads.

— Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 23 Aug. 2026

Definition of adjustable

Browse Nearby Words

opened (up)

open-ended

open-eyed

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Style

“Open-ended.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/open-ended. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of open-ended

adjective

Example Sentences

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