# inconclusive

/ˌɪnkənˈkɫusɪv/ (US) · /ɪnkənklˈuːsɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inconclusive
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

not leading to a clear result or decision. You use this when a test or a search does not give you a final answer.

For teachers: failing to provide a definitive result or lead to a firm conclusion. Often describes evidence, research findings, or the outcome of a competition.

## Examples

- The medical test results were inconclusive, so I need more exams.
- Despite a week of intense investigation, the evidence remains inconclusive regarding the cause of the fire.
- The initial study proved inconclusive, prompting the research team to redesign their methodology to account for previously overlooked environmental variables.

## Usage notes

- Often follows linking verbs such as 'be', 'remain', or 'prove'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.