OPEN-ENDED Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

open-ended

adjective

Definition of open-ended

as in unspecified

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of open-ended Sanding that motivation down into a more kid-friendly and open-ended spectacle, this adaptation doesn’t broaden Orwell’s message so much as empty it. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 30 Apr. 2026 Holding back or keeping things open-ended slows momentum right now. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 28 Apr. 2026 Such walkouts frequently have a beginning and end date, but Local 99’s strike would be open-ended — which means school would be indefinitely closed by the three-union solidarity walkout. — Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026 Second, all events in the campaign are locked to specific car classes before first completion, which will be music to the ears of anyone who ever thought these games were too directionless and open-ended to invite any tension or purpose. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for open-ended

Recent Examples of Synonyms for open-ended

Adjective

Shortly after the incident, the US made the unusual decision to move all its long-range bombers stationed in the UK back to their home bases on American soil following an unspecified new threat.

— Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 2026
Trump then cited an unspecified death toll related to the conflict.

— David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 12 Oct. 2026

Definition of unspecified

Adjective

In the meantime, posting online brings the risk of having jokes ripped off not just once, but an indefinite amount of times, across accounts, and by all kinds of different bots.

— Matt Grobar, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026
Encryption does not justify unnecessary collection, indefinite retention or intrusive profiling.

— Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of indefinite

Adjective

This accent color continues into the cabin on the dashboard and center console, while the standard four-way power-adjustable sport seats add to the sense of occasion with plaid inserts.

— Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2026
Their two top sellers are the Banyan pant, which is a snap pant, and a Move and Groove pant, both of which are adjustable.

— Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of adjustable

Browse Nearby Words

opened (up)

open-ended

open-eyed

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Style

“Open-ended.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/open-ended. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of open-ended

adjective

Example Sentences

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