Inconclusive: meaning, definitions and examples

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inconclusive

[ˌɪnkənˈkluːsɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

research

Not leading to a firm conclusion or result; not ending doubt or dispute.

Synonyms

ambiguous, indecisive, uncertain, unsettled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inconclusive	Used when results or evidence are not definitive and cannot lead to a clear decision or conclusion. The investigation was inconclusive, so they had to continue their search for more evidence. The test results were inconclusive, requiring further examinations.
indecisive	Describes a person who struggles to make decisions or a situation where a clear choice is not made. He is often indecisive when choosing a restaurant. The committee remained indecisive, postponing the final decision until the next meeting.
unsettled	Describes a situation or person that remains unresolved or in a state of disorder, often leading to discomfort or worry. The dispute left the community feeling unsettled. The market is currently unsettled due to recent events.
ambiguous	Used when something can be understood in multiple ways and lacks clarity or a single interpretation. The instructions were ambiguous, leading to different interpretations among team members. Her answer was ambiguous, leaving everyone confused.
uncertain	Used when someone is unsure about something or when the outcome or future is not clear. She was uncertain about which career path to follow. The weather forecast is uncertain, so we need a backup plan.

Examples of usage

The inconclusive experiment left the scientists puzzled.
After hours of discussion, the meeting was inconclusive.
The evidence presented was inconclusive, leaving the case unresolved.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

analysis

Not leading to a definite result or outcome; not providing a clear answer.

Synonyms

ambiguous, indefinite, unconclusive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inconclusive	Suitable when describing results or evidence that do not lead to a final decision or conclusion. The test results were inconclusive, so we need to run more tests The debate ended in an inconclusive manner, leaving the issue unresolved
indefinite	Applied when something is not clearly defined, limitless, or lasting for an unknown period of time. The duration of their stay is indefinite She received an indefinite answer about her job application, leaving her uncertain
unconclusive	This is not a standard English word and is rarely, if ever, used. The correct term would be 'inconclusive'. N/A
ambiguous	Used when something is open to more than one interpretation and is unclear or confusing. His intentions were ambiguous; I couldn't tell if he was serious The wording in the contract was ambiguous and led to misunderstandings

Examples of usage

The data was inconclusive and required further investigation.
The test results were inconclusive, requiring additional testing.
The study's findings were inconclusive, prompting a reevaluation of the methodology.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'inconclusive' comes from the prefix 'in-', meaning 'not', and 'conclusive', which means leading to a conclusion.
It first entered English usage in the late 19th century, deriving from Latin roots with 'concludere', meaning 'to conclude'.
Compound words like 'inconclusive' reflect a common pattern in English of creating new terms by combining prefixes with existing words.

Science

In scientific studies, an inconclusive result indicates that the data did not provide enough support for one specific outcome.
Inconclusive findings can often lead to further research because they highlight gaps in understanding and uncertainty.
Medical trials sometimes produce inconclusive results, meaning doctors might not yet know the best treatment path.

Psychology

Inconclusive results can lead to cognitive dissonance, where individuals hold conflicting thoughts or beliefs.
This feeling can create stress as people struggle to reach closure on their thoughts or decisions.
Decision-making processes often face inconclusiveness, causing frustration but also encouraging deeper analysis.

Pop Culture

Movies and TV shows often end inconclusively, prompting viewers to debate and discuss potential outcomes.
Inconclusive endings in literature, like some novels with open interpretations, can leave readers pondering the author's intent.
Video game narratives sometimes employ inconclusive storylines to enhance player engagement, encouraging explorations of different player choices.

Philosophy

Many philosophical discussions are deemed inconclusive, making it difficult to arrive at absolute truths.
Philosophers like Socrates embraced inconclusiveness, believing it sparked further questioning and exploration.
Inconclusiveness is often a hallmark of existential discussions, where clear resolutions are challenging.

Translations

Translations of the word "inconclusive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inconclusivo

🇮🇳 अपूर्ण

🇩🇪 unentschieden

🇮🇩 tidak konklusif

🇺🇦 неоднозначний

🇵🇱 niejednoznaczny

🇯🇵 決定的でない

🇫🇷 inconclusif

🇪🇸 inconcluso

🇹🇷 sonuçsuz

🇰🇷 결정적이지 않은

🇸🇦 غير حاسم

🇨🇿 nepřesvědčivý

🇸🇰 nepresvedčivý

🇨🇳 无定论的

🇸🇮 neprepričljiv

🇮🇸 óljóst

🇰🇿 айқын емес

🇬🇪 უცნობი

🇦🇿 qeyri-müəyyən

🇲🇽 inconcluso

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,300, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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15297 winked
15298 acrylic
15299 placements
15300 inconclusive
15301 vaccinated
15302 negligently
15303 flattery
...