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.