Conclusiveness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conclusiveness

[kənˈkluːsɪvnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

decision making

Conclusiveness refers to the quality of being conclusive; it indicates that something is decisive or definitive, leaving no room for doubt or uncertainty. In various contexts, such as legal or logical arguments, conclusiveness is important for reaching a firm conclusion.

Synonyms

certainty, decisiveness, determination, finality.

Examples of usage

  • The conclusiveness of the evidence led the jury to a swift verdict.
  • Her argument was marked by its conclusiveness, making it difficult to dispute.
  • The study provides a level of conclusiveness that could change the current understanding of the issue.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophical arguments, conclusiveness is vital in establishing sound reasoning and valid conclusions.
  • Debate often revolves around the strength of evidence that leads to a conclusive statement or belief.
  • The principle of sufficient reason states that everything must have an explanation, linking it to how we view conclusiveness in truths.

Science

  • In scientific experiments, results are deemed conclusive when they are repeatable and yield the same findings under controlled conditions.
  • Peer-reviewed studies often highlight the need for conclusiveness in research to be accepted by the wider scientific community.
  • A conclusive theory is one that can generally explain phenomena without ambiguity, providing a reliable framework for understanding.

Psychology

  • In decision-making, the sense of conclusiveness can lead to better confidence in choices and a reduced likelihood of regret.
  • People often seek conclusiveness in relationships and social interactions to feel assured of their understanding and bonds.
  • Cognitive closure, the desire for an answer or conclusion quickly, influences how individuals perceive and process information.

Law

  • In legal contexts, conclusiveness can refer to facts that cannot be disputed once established, like in a court ruling.
  • The concept of 'res judicata' refers to the conclusiveness of legal decisions that prevent the same case from being tried again.
  • Evidential rules in court aim to ensure that only conclusive evidence is considered, leading to fair judgments.

Origin of 'conclusiveness'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'conclusiveness' originates from the Latin word 'conclusio,' meaning 'to close or shut off.'
  • It combines the root 'conclude,' which reflects the idea of bringing something to an end or conclusion.
  • The usage of 'conclusive' dates back to the early 15th century, indicating clarity in reasoning.

The word 'conclusive' originates from the Latin 'conclusus', the past participle of 'concludere', which means 'to close, finish, or conclude'. 'Concludere' is formed from 'con-' (meaning 'together') and 'cludere' (meaning 'to shut'). The suffix '-ness' is added to form a noun indicating a state or quality. The term began to surface in English texts around the late 18th century, initially in scientific and academic contexts, to describe findings or arguments that decisively resolved a question or issue. Its usage has since expanded across various fields, embodying the essence of definitiveness and resolution.


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