Elicit
mediumNeutral toneih-LIS-it
verb
Definition
To draw out or evoke a response, answer, or fact
Memory hook
E-LICIT: to draw out a response — not ILLICIT (illegal). Questions elicit answers.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The lawyer's questions elicited contradictory testimony.”
“The comedian's jokes elicited roars of laughter.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The lawyer's questions ______ contradictory testimony.”
Show answer
elicited
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Elicit is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "evoke" or "extract" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "suppress".
Related GRE Words
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
allude
To suggest or call attention to indirectly; to hint at
allusion
An indirect reference, especially to something in literature or history
antagonize
To cause someone to become hostile or angry
apprise
To inform or tell someone about something
articulate
Having or showing the ability to speak fluently and coherently
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