Inconclusiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

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inconclusiveness

[ˌɪnkənˈkluːsɪvnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in academic discussion

The state or quality of not leading to a definite conclusion or result; the lack of decisiveness or finality in a debate or argument.

Synonyms

ambiguity, inconclusivity, indecisiveness, uncertainty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inconclusiveness	Use when talking about a situation or evidence that does not lead to a final decision or conclusion. The inconclusiveness of the results makes it hard to take further actions The investigation's inconclusiveness frustrated many people
indecisiveness	Focuses on a person's inability to make a decision or act with determination. His indecisiveness about the project caused delays The company's indecisiveness affected its market performance
uncertainty	Describes a general lack of certainty or assurance, often used in various contexts from scientific to daily life. The uncertainty about the weather made it hard to plan the event Financial uncertainty can cause a lot of stress for families
ambiguity	Applies to situations where something can have multiple interpretations or meanings. Her statement was full of ambiguity, making it hard to understand her true intentions The ambiguity of the contract terms caused a lot of confusion
inconclusivity	Used rarely but in a similar manner to 'inconclusiveness,' mainly in formal or academic contexts. The inconclusivity of the findings requires additional studies Due to the inconclusivity of the research, no definitive answers can be provided

Examples of usage

The inconclusiveness of the research findings left the scientists puzzled.
The inconclusiveness of the evidence made it difficult for the jury to reach a verdict.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in investigations

The failure to produce a definite or clear result in an investigation or inquiry; the lack of concrete evidence or proof.

Synonyms

inconclusive nature, indefinite result, indefiniteness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inconclusiveness	Repeated entry, likely a mistake, same as above.
inconclusive nature	Describes the inherent quality of being inconclusive, often used in scientific or legal contexts to describe findings or evidence. The inconclusive nature of the evidence made it hard for the jury to reach a verdict
indefiniteness	Used to describe something lacking clear definition or certainty, often used in philosophical or abstract discussions. The indefiniteness of the concept made it difficult to fully grasp
indefinite result	Describes a result that is not clear or has no definite conclusion, often used in tests or experiments. The experiment led to an indefinite result, requiring further investigation

Examples of usage

The inconclusiveness of the DNA samples hindered the detectives' ability to solve the case.
The inconclusiveness of the forensic analysis led to the case being left open.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'concludere', meaning 'to close off', with the prefix ‘in-’ denoting negation.
It was formed in the late 19th century as people began discussing uncertainty in various contexts, like science and law.
The suffix ‘-ness’ attaches to adjectives to form nouns, showing a state of being.

Psychology

Inconclusiveness can lead to indecision, often resulting in decision paralysis, where making any choice becomes difficult.
Research shows that people generally prefer having closure over ambiguity, as it affects their emotional well-being.
Cognitive dissonance arises with inconclusiveness, where conflicting thoughts create discomfort until resolved.

Pop Culture

Many mystery novels feature inconclusiveness as a narrative tool, creating suspense until the very end.
In film, cliffhangers often leave audiences feeling a sense of inconclusiveness that encourages discussion and speculation.
Reality TV often thrives on inconclusiveness to create drama and keep viewers guessing about outcomes.

Philosophy

Philosophers often explore the nature of truth and knowledge, acknowledging that inconclusiveness is inherent in many debates.
The Socratic method illustrates this concept, as it often leads to more questions than answers, emphasizing the value of the inquiry.
Existentialists argue that the lack of clear conclusions can be central to human experience, leading to personal growth.

Education

Inconclusiveness in research papers can indicate the need for further study, reminding scholars of the ongoing nature of learning.
Students are taught to recognize inconclusiveness in arguments, distinguishing between strong and weak evidence.
Critical thinking skills are essential for navigating inconclusiveness, allowing individuals to weigh options and outcomes.

Translations

Translations of the word "inconclusiveness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inconclusividade

🇮🇳 अधूरापन

🇩🇪 Unschlüssigkeit

🇮🇩 ketidakpastian

🇺🇦 невизначеність

🇵🇱 niejednoznaczność

🇯🇵 結論が出ないこと

🇫🇷 inconclusivité

🇪🇸 inconclusividad

🇹🇷 belirsizlik

🇰🇷 결론 없음

🇸🇦 عدم الحسم

🇨🇿 nepřesvědčivost

🇸🇰 nepresvedčivosť

🇨🇳 未决

🇸🇮 neodločnost

🇮🇸 óákveðni

🇰🇿 шешілмегендік

🇬🇪 დაუსრულებლობა

🇦🇿 qərarsızlıq

🇲🇽 inconclusividad