Words / C1

k-uh-n-KLOOS-iv/kənˈkluːsɪv/

Conclusive means proving something beyond reasonable doubt: conclusive evidence, a conclusive result. Decisive is a close synonym; definite is everyday and milder; final can mean merely “last.” Inconclusively is the useful opposite (the trial was inconclusive). In speech, that settles it is enough. Do not call a single anecdote conclusive.

Meaning

Proving something beyond reasonable doubt.

Examples

• “The DNA evidence was conclusive.”
• “The DNA match was conclusive; the timeline was not.”
• “We lack conclusive data, so the claim belongs in the discussion, not the abstract.”

Good to know

Settling the question. Close: decisive. Everyday: that settles it. Opposite: inconclusive. Stronger than definite.

Near in meaning

decisive

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