conclusive

/kənˈklusɪv/

Group 25Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Serving to prove a case; decisive or convincing
GRE

Example in Context

The evidence, while suggestive, was not conclusive enough to support the sweeping claims made in the authors' abstract.

Synonyms

decisivedefinitivefinal

Etymology

Closing the case on a matter decisively.

  • con- (Latin) — together
  • cludere (Latin) — to close

Memory Aid

🔒Sounds like “con clue sive

A detective holding a 'CLUE' that is so 'CONCLUSIVE' it locks the case shut forever!

Visual Association

A judge's gavel coming down with a loud bang, signaling a clear and final verdict in the courtroom.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “conclusive” mean on the GRE?

conclusive (adjective) means “Serving to prove a case; decisive or convincing”. The evidence, while suggestive, was not conclusive enough to support the sweeping claims made in the authors' abstract.

How to remember “conclusive” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “conclusive” sounds like “con clue sive”. A detective holding a 'CLUE' that is so 'CONCLUSIVE' it locks the case shut forever!

What are synonyms for “conclusive”?

Common synonyms: decisive, definitive, final.