open-ended

[ oh-puhn-en-did ]

adjective

1. not having fixed limits; unrestricted; broad:

   an open-ended discussion.

2. allowing for future changes, revisions, or additions:

   open-ended agreements.

3. having no fixed answer:

   an open-ended question.

open-ended

adjective

1. without definite limits, as of duration or amount

   an open-ended contract

2. denoting a question, esp one on a questionnaire, that cannot be answered "yes", "no", or "don't know"

Other Words From

• open-ended·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of open-ended¹

First recorded in 1815–25; open + end ¹ + -ed ³

Example Sentences

DIS allows students in FSU's Honors Program to work one-on-one with faculty mentors in an open-ended, hands-on research experience and would allow Hartman to be more involved with mathematical modeling.

From Science Daily

They used focus groups and open-ended questionnaires to gather rich, detailed data about consumer experiences with cash and cashless payment methods.

From Science Daily

A major impediment to total control for either party is that Senate bills require a three-fifths majority, or 60 votes, to bypass the filibuster, which enables senators to delay legislation by keeping debate open-ended.

From BBC

Much has been made about the film’s final scene, which leaves “Heretic’s” judgment about faith and justice open-ended.

From Los Angeles Times

When asked to name a word or phrase to describe each candidate, Min’s most frequent open-ended mention was “DUI” or “Drunk driving.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• unlimited
• unrestricted