conclusive

adjective

con·​clu·​sive kən-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

1

: of, relating to, or being a conclusion

2

: putting an end to debate or question especially by reason of irrefutability

The results were not conclusive.

conclusively adverb

conclusiveness noun

Synonyms

• absolute
• clear
• deciding
• decisive
• definitive
• last

Choose the Right Synonym for conclusive

conclusive, decisive, determinative, definitive mean bringing to an end.

conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

Examples of conclusive in a Sentence

the archeological discovery was conclusive proof that the Vikings had indeed settled in North America around 1000 A.D.

a conclusive argument for allowing the students to put on a play of their own choosing

Recent Examples on the Web

As an option, have a separate, conclusive AI to summarize everything and produce the final answers. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025

This observation provided the first conclusive evidence for the existence of the cosmic behemoth at the core of a galaxy. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 24 Apr. 2025

But there was no conclusive evidence that the remains of what appeared to be robust young men were anyone other than soldiers or slaves — until now. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 23 Apr. 2025

While no conclusive evidence has yet been found of extraterrestrial life, scientists are seeking out worlds like K2-18b with hydrogen-rich atmospheres that astronomers believe to be covered in liquid water. —Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see conclude

First Known Use

1536, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for conclusive

• abusive
• allusive
• collusive
• conducive
• delusive
• diffusive
• elusive
• exclusive
• extrusive
• illusive
• inclusive
• intrusive

Kids Definition

conclusive

adjective

con·​clu·​sive kən-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

: decisive sense 1, convincing

conclusive proof

conclusively adverb

conclusiveness noun

Legal Definition

conclusive

adjective

con·​clu·​sive

1

: of, relating to, or being a conclusion

2

: putting an end to debate or question especially by reason of inability to be refuted

conclusively adverb

conclusiveness noun