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

For scientists, the milestone promises the enticing potential of unlocking secrets of the universe that have long remained elusive. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 7 July 2026

Tracking an elusive species in the wild can mean hours or days without a sighting, perhaps in difficult terrain or remote locations. — Jenny Whilde, The Conversation, 7 July 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo in his last World Cup, continuing the pursuit of the elusive trophy. — Phil Hay, New York Times, 4 July 2026

Already this year, the elusive-yet-ubiquitous producer is credited on Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE’s POMPEII // UTILITY, a song with Compton’s $amaad, and an ambient instrumental tape. — Oba Awolowo, Pitchfork, 3 July 2026