Elicit

Verb

Definition: To draw forth or bring out.

Definition: To evoke or provoke a reaction or response.

Synonyms: Extract, Obtain, Evoke

Antonyms: Suppress, Inhibit

Examples:
  • The detective was able to elicit valuable information from the witness.
  • His speech at the rally elicited a great deal of applause and support.
Mnemonics:
  • "El" in "elicit" sounds like "L" which can stand for "draw out" or "bring out".
  • Think of "eliciting" a response or reaction from someone as pulling it out of them.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "elicit" originated from the Latin word "elicitus" which means "drawn out".

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the late 16th century with the same meaning of drawing something out or bringing something forth.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Elicit a response"

Explanation:

This phrase refers to intentionally provoking or evoking a reaction or feedback from someone.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "elicit" with "illicit".

Explanation:

"Elicit" means to draw out or provoke, while "illicit" means illegal or forbidden. They are two completely different words with different meanings.

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