Conclusive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conclusive

[kənˈkluːsɪv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

final decision

Conclusive means serving to settle an issue or produce a result. It is definitive, decisive, and indisputable. Conclusive evidence is evidence that proves a case beyond any doubt.

Synonyms

decisive, definitive, indisputable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conclusive

Best used when describing evidence or arguments that ultimately prove a point beyond doubt.

  • The DNA test provided conclusive evidence that he was innocent.
  • Her research offered conclusive proof of the theory.
definitive

Used when referring to something that is authoritative, final, and conclusive within its scope.

  • The professor wrote the definitive book on quantum mechanics.
  • Their win was the definitive moment in the tournament.
decisive

Appropriate for describing a decision or action that has a significant impact and resolves issues or disputes.

  • The judge's ruling was decisive in settling the case.
  • His decisive leadership helped them win the match.
indisputable

Best when referring to facts or truths that cannot be denied or challenged.

  • It's an indisputable fact that the Earth revolves around the sun.
  • The evidence against the suspect was indisputable.

Examples of usage

  • The DNA results were conclusive in determining the suspect's guilt.
  • After hearing all the witness testimonies, the judge reached a conclusive decision.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In scientific experiments, conclusive results are essential for drawing definitive theories or laws.
  • Peer review processes seek to strengthen findings, moving towards conclusiveness in research.
  • Statistical significance is often used to determine if results are conclusive in studies.

Law

  • In legal cases, conclusive evidence can determine the outcome of a trial, leading to a final verdict.
  • A conclusive ruling establishes a precedent, influencing future cases with similar circumstances.
  • Judicial decisions can provide finality, reinforcing the concept of conclusiveness in the justice system.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers debate what constitutes conclusive evidence and how it impacts knowledge and belief.
  • Arguments are often constructed to reach conclusive points, allowing for debates to settle disputes.
  • The search for definitive truths in philosophical discussions often revolves around the notion of conclusiveness.

Pop Culture

  • In mystery novels, conclusive evidence leads detectives to solve the crime, often in the last chapter.
  • Reality television shows sometimes present conclusive events that impact the fate of contestants.
  • Conclusive endings in films can evoke strong emotional responses, providing a sense of closure to viewers.

Origin of 'conclusive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'concludere', meaning 'to close' or 'to finish'.
  • It was adopted into English in the late 18th century, signifying a strong ending or decision.
  • Related words include 'conclusion', which has similar roots and is used in everyday conversations.

The word 'conclusive' has roots in the Latin word 'conclusivus', which means 'final'. It entered the English language in the mid-17th century. The concept of something being conclusive has always been important in legal and scientific contexts, where a final decision or result is crucial.


See also: concludable, concluded, concluding, conclusion, conclusively, conclusiveness, inconclusiveness, nonconclusive.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,249 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.