Words / C1

i-VAYS-iv/ɪˈveɪsɪv/

Evasive means not direct; trying to avoid giving a clear answer or being caught: an evasive answer, an evasive abstract. Evade (already in the dictionary) is the verb; adjectives without an n will not pass methods.

Meaning

Not direct; trying to avoid giving a clear answer or being caught (from evade, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “An evasive abstract with no n will not pass methods.”
• “Cagey is everyday. Indirect is the close twin. Adjectives are colour. A cell is a count. Put the number in; then keep the adjectives if they still sit on a fact.”

Good to know

Indirect; avoiding a clear answer. Verb: evade (already in the dictionary). Adjectives ≠ an n.

Near in meaning

cagey, indirect, elusive

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