elicit
verb
to draw out (a response, information)
“The question elicited laughter.”
Sound-alikes
elicit vs illicit
Elicit is a verb meaning to draw out a response; illicit is an adjective meaning illegal or forbidden.
illicit
adjective
illegal, not allowed
“Police found illicit drugs.”
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Questions about elicit vs illicit
What is the difference between elicit and illicit?
Elicit is a verb meaning to draw out a response; illicit is an adjective meaning illegal or forbidden.
How do I remember elicit vs illicit?
Elicit → Extract. Illicit → ILLegal.
Are there exceptions?
Elicit is always followed by what it draws out: "elicit a reaction", "elicit information from witnesses".
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