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 Word Forms

• open-endedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of open-ended¹

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

Example Sentences

It doesn’t have to be an open-ended, lifetime commitment to Harris’ protection, but an arrangement that could be periodically reviewed, as time passes and potential danger wanes.

From Los Angeles Times

Netanyahu has said that, ultimately, Israel must keep open-ended security control over Gaza.

From BBC

Wednesday’s statement also left the possibility of future live performances pretty open-ended: “Don’t know where, don’t know when...We hope to see you all again.”

From Los Angeles Times

Legions of fans were furious, blasting the ending as perplexing and open-ended.

From Los Angeles Times

US defence secretary Pete Hegseth has responded to concerns the US attacks could prompt the start of a long conflict by insisting: "This is most certainly not open-ended".

From BBC

Related Words

• unlimited 
• unrestricted