Words / C1

i-LIS-it/ɪˈlɪsɪt/

To elicit is to draw out a response, fact, or feeling, usually by a question, task, or stimulus. Native researchers elicit judgements, elicit examples. Extract can sound forceful (extract a confession); obtain is general. Elicit is not illicit (illegal) — a common spelling confusion.

Meaning

To get information, a reaction, or an answer, often by asking.

Examples

• “Good questions elicit longer answers.”
• “The prompt was designed to elicit disagreement, not consensus.”
• “A follow-up question elicited the missing date.”

Good to know

elicit a response/answer. Not illicit (illegal). Stronger/forceful: extract.

Near in meaning

draw out

New