Inconclusive (adjective): Not leading to a definite or final result; insufficient to resolve a question, prove a hypothesis, or support a firm conclusion.
✅ In a medical/scientific context: A study or finding is inconclusive when the evidence is insufficient, conflicting, or lacks statistical significance to support a clear interpretation or clinical decision.
🧠 Examples in use: “The trial results were inconclusive, showing no statistically significant benefit of the new drug over placebo.”
“Imaging was inconclusive for tumor progression, requiring further follow-up or biopsy.”
“Despite multiple interventions, the data remain inconclusive regarding outcome improvement.”
❗ Implication: “Inconclusive” does not mean false or irrelevant — it means the available data do not allow a definitive interpretation. It signals the need for further research or better-designed studies.