inconclusive
- adjective
- /ˌɪnkənˈkluːsɪv/
- Her experiments produced inconclusive results, which frustrated her as she sought clear evidence.
- inconclusive results
- inconclusive evidence
- remain inconclusive
Up to now, the data has been inconclusive.
- Up to now, the data has been inconclusive.
- So it, it really is inconclusive.
- My own view is it seems inconclusive, but.
- Right now, we're still in clinical trials, inconclusive.
- In conclusive Oh my gosh, inconclusive.
Examples
-
I leaned back in Bill's swivel chair, trying to sort through this maze of inconclusive information.
Fiction book (1995) -
All clean fuel prices had an inconclusive association with fuel choice.
Academic text (2012) -
The day so far feels inconclusive.
-
The medical facts here are ultimately inconclusive.
-
If you have an inconclusive result, that's it.
-
The pictures you e-mailed us were inconclusive.
-
The answers to these questions so far have remained inconclusive and contradictory.
Academic text (1993) -
Even though the evidence about Atlantis is still inconclusive, a visit to the site is an enlightening experience.
Academic text (1999) -
Three biological tests of the soil yielded some surprises and, at the time, inconclusive results.
Academic text (1994) -
A premodern, chaotic, impressionistic, and often inconclusive process has been organized and upgraded thanks to modern technology.
Academic text (1993)
Synonyms
Not known for sure and likely to change
Not yet sure which option or side to choose
Open to question or discussion
Not certain or reliable
Not yet decided or known
Not clearly known or decided
You cannot know for sure
Not clearly defined so limits are unclear
Not giving a clear answer or result
It is not possible to know for sure
Antonyms
How Conclusive
Surface Forms
Morphology
inconclusive = conclusive (semi-transparent) = in + conclude + ive
For learners who know 'conclusive', adding 'in-' clearly gives the meaning 'not conclusive'.
Etymology
The word inconclusive is made of in- ('not') and the same root as conclude and conclusion, which mean 'close' or 'finish'. So, something inconclusive does not 'close' the question and leaves doubt instead of a clear decision.