What does conclusion mean?
A conclusion is either the point at which something ends — a speech, a book, a negotiation, an experiment — or the judgment that emerges from a process of thought. The two senses are closely linked: when we reach a conclusion, we bring our reasoning to a close and settle on a result. The word carries a neutral tone and fits nearly any register, from casual conversation ('we finally reached a conclusion') to scholarly prose ('the study's conclusions support the hypothesis'). Common fixed phrases include 'draw a conclusion', 'come to a conclusion', and 'jump to conclusions', the last of which warns against deciding too hastily. Related forms include the verb 'conclude' and the adjective 'conclusive'. Derived ultimately from Latin roots meaning to shut or close together, conclusion literally embodies the idea of bringing matters to a close.
nounThe end or final part of something, such as a speech, event, or piece of writing. Also: a judgment or decision reached after reasoning or consideration.
- A judgment or decision reached after reasoning (the dominant sense in academic and professional use).
- The end or final part of something such as a speech, text, event, or process.
- The act of arranging or settling something, especially formally (e.g. the conclusion of a treaty).
"The report's conclusion was that further research was needed."
"After weighing all the evidence, she drew the conclusion that the theory was sound."
"The conference came to a conclusion with a summary of key agreements."
Standard plural, common in academic and analytical writing when referring to multiple judgments or findings.
"The paper's conclusions were widely debated."
When scientists say a finding is 'inconclusive,' they're literally saying it fails to close the case — because to conclude originally meant to shut something shut.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of conclusion
Conclusion derives from Latin conclusio, from the verb concludere, formed from con- ('together') and claudere ('to shut, close'). It entered English via Old French in the late Middle Ages, initially carrying senses tied to logical inference before broadening to mean any ending or settlement. Its cognates include conclude, conclusive, include, and exclude, all descendants of Latin claudere.
Related word forms
How conclusion is actually used
Neutral register, common in both formal and everyday contexts. In formal writing and speech, 'in conclusion' is a conventional phrase for introducing final remarks, though style guides sometimes discourage overuse. The plural 'conclusions' often appears in academic contexts ('draw conclusions from the data').
Easily confused with conclusion
'Conclusion' is the noun meaning an ending or judgment; 'conclusive' is an adjective describing evidence that settles a question beyond doubt.