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

Krasner said Hughes is on probation for an unspecified crime in nearby Montgomery County.

— Dennis Romero, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2026
Hayley Dylan is seeking unspecified economic and non-economic damages from Scott, who was 26 and married at the time of the encounter.

— Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of unspecified

Adjective

The outcome of the investigation, Balon said, resulted in the officer receiving a demotion in rank, an unpaid suspension, an indefinite suspension from the use of Flock and remedial ethics training.

— Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026
The show’s central quintet reside in the childhood home of Samir, whose semi-retired parents are on an apparently indefinite tour of the national parks.

— Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of indefinite

Adjective

This baby-pink maxi has an adjustable neck strap and cascading ruffles along the bottom.

— Eva Thomas, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026
Pressure-relieving foam sits atop a section of supportive microcoils with a durable foam border and adjustable responsive air chambers, ensuring a personalized balance of comfort and stability.

— V BRAND STORIES, Forbes.com, 28 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of open-ended

adjective

Example Sentences

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