Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/kənˈkluːsɪv/

Definitions

• Serving to settle or decide a matter; decisive.
• Providing a final or convincing proof or evidence.
• Indicating a definite conclusion or result.

Usage Examples

• The DNA test provided conclusive evidence of his innocence.
• The team's performance in the final match was conclusive, securing their championship victory.
• The detective's investigation reached a conclusive outcome, with the suspect being identified.

Etymology

From the Latin word "concludere," meaning "to close or bring to an end," derived from "con-" (together) and "claudere" (to shut).

Synonyms

• Decisive
• Definitive
• Final
• Irrefutable
• Indisputable

Antonyms

• Indeterminate
• Inconclusive
• Uncertain
• Ambiguous
• Vague

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English: /kənˈkluːsɪv/ with a soft "s" sound.
• In American English: /kənˈkluːsɪv/ with a slightly stronger "s" sound.

Historical Usage

The word "conclusive" has been in use since the early 16th century, derived from the Latin "concludere." In early usage, it referred to actions or results that brought an argument or process to a firm close. Over time, its use expanded to include any evidence or statement that provided a definite end or judgment in a variety of fields, such as law, science, and debate.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of something being "conclusive" is deeply embedded in legal and scientific traditions, where findings must be definitive in order to resolve disputes or confirm hypotheses. In various cultures, the idea of a "conclusive" decision or event carries significant weight, often representing the culmination of efforts or negotiations that can no longer be questioned.

More Information

The term "conclusive" is often used in situations where no further argument or questioning is necessary because the evidence or reasoning presented is final and definitive. It is widely used in contexts such as legal rulings, scientific research findings, and even personal decisions that are regarded as final. The importance of being "conclusive" is often seen in the ability to resolve matters without ambiguity, and to provide clarity and closure to an ongoing process.