open-ended

adjective

open-end·​ed ˌō-pən-ˈen-dəd How to pronounce open-ended (audio)
: not rigorously fixed: such as
a
: adaptable to the developing needs of a situation
b
: permitting or designed to permit spontaneous and unguided responses
open-endedness noun

Examples of open-ended in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The first prompt is open-ended and likely to return generic results. Shikher Goel, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025 The collaboration with Runway was open-ended and flexible. Lila Shapiro, Vulture, 4 June 2025 The answer is simple, though open-ended: Get creative. Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 4 June 2025 Even some schools that offer four-year degrees have coupled open-ended start and stop dates with self-pacing, allowing students to pay for their courses by the month, instead of by the credit and per semester. Derek Newton, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for open-ended

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open-ended was in 1825

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Cite this Entry

“Open-ended.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open-ended. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

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