Synonym Chooser

How does the verb elicit contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elicit are educe, evoke, extort, and extract. While all these words mean "to draw out something hidden, latent, or reserved," elicit usually implies some effort or skill in drawing forth a response.

careful questioning elicited the truth

When is it sensible to use educe instead of elicit?

The meanings of educe and elicit largely overlap; however, educe implies the bringing out of something potential or latent.

educed order out of chaos

When could evoke be used to replace elicit?

The words evoke and elicit are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, evoke implies a strong stimulus that arouses an emotion or an interest or recalls an image or memory.

a song that evokes warm memories

When might extort be a better fit than elicit?

In some situations, the words extort and elicit are roughly equivalent. However, extort suggests a wringing or wresting from one who resists strongly.

extorted their cooperation by threatening to inform

In what contexts can extract take the place of elicit?

Although the words extract and elicit have much in common, extract implies the use of force or pressure in obtaining answers or information.

extracted a confession from him

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elicit These types of expressions are unhelpful, and often elicit defensive responses. Kelley J. Brower, CNBC, 5 June 2025 Meanwhile, the news also elicited confusion over what will happen once the ban goes into effect on Monday. Suzanne Gamboa, NBC news, 5 June 2025 This is not something meant to elicit praise, surprise, disgust or a call from my gastroenterologist. Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025 That assessment is likely to elicit wide eyes and snarky responses across college football, but her case comes with an important caveat. Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for elicit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elicit
Verb
  • Designed to evoke the charm of a refined café in Paris, the evening will showcase an exclusive cocktail menu crafted with French ingredients and expert precision in Bar Crenn’s intimate setting.
    Chelsea Davis, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • In their speeches Saturday, some of the rally speakers evoked the theme, which was also used to fuel Serbian nationalism in the 1990s that later led to the incitement of ethnic wars after the breakup of Yugoslavia.
    Jovana Gec, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2025
Verb
  • America is not used to having a local guy as the driving force of an institution with four times as much history and an even greater capacity to inspire fear and awe.
    Belinda Luscombe, Time, 1 July 2025
  • Yes, a couple of Czech producers came up with an idea influenced by or inspired by the Wim Wenders documentary about 18 months ago.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Elicit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elicit. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on elicit

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