inconclusive
|in-con-clu-sive|
C1
/ˌɪnkənˈkluːsɪv/
without conclusion
Etymology
Etymology Information
'inconclusive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inconclusus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'conclusus' meant 'closed or concluded.'
Historical Evolution
'inconclusus' transformed into the French word 'inconclus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inconclusive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not closed or finished,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not leading to a firm conclusion.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not leading to a firm conclusion or result; not ending doubt or dispute.
The evidence was inconclusive, so the case was dismissed.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45