Synonyms of elusive

elusive

adjective

ē-ˈlü-siv 

as in slippery

hard to find, capture, or isolate

the giant squid is one of the ocean's most elusive inhabitants

Synonyms & Similar Words

• slippery
• transient
• evasive
• fleeting
• temporary
• inaccessible
• passing
• fugitive
• ephemeral
• unavailable
• evanescent
• unobtainable
• transitory
• momentary
• unattainable
• untouchable
• shifty
• unreachable
• cagey
• short-lived
• inconvenient
• unapproachable
• impermanent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• available
• convenient
• attainable
• obtainable
• accessible
• reachable
• approachable

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of elusive

While agreement remains elusive, the world’s oil markets must confront draining crude reserves. — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 5 Aug. 2026

Instead, the Hall of Fame running back who inspired a generation of running backs with his sensational, elusive, shifty style was walking up and down the sideline handing out refreshments to his teammates. — CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026

The snakes were a little more elusive this year, but 280 invasive Burmese pythons were removed during the annual Florida Python Challenge. — Laurie Mermet, Sun Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026

Crystal blue water at the public beaches, kayaking near manatees, and the nearby Myakka River State Park, which is home to cranes, alligators, gopher tortoises, the elusive Florida panther, and hundreds of other species. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 3 Aug. 2026