Word: elicit (verb)

Associations

The word "elicit" means to draw out or bring forth a response, answer, or reaction from someone. It is often used when you want to get information, feelings, or reactions by asking questions or using some action.

• Example 1: The teacher's question was designed to elicit thoughtful answers from the students. (Here, "elicit" means to get answers.)
• Example 2: The comedian's joke elicited laughter from the audience. (Here, it means to cause a reaction, laughter.)
• Example 3: The detective tried to elicit the truth from the suspect. (Here, it means to get the truth.)

Synonym: "extract" can be similar, but "extract" often implies more effort or force, while "elicit" is usually about gently bringing out a response.

Substitution

Instead of "elicit," you can use:

• "draw out" (more informal, same meaning)
• "bring out" (similar meaning)
• "evoke" (more about emotions or feelings)
• "extract" (more forceful or formal)

Each substitution changes the tone a bit. For example, "evoke" is more emotional, while "extract" is more about force or effort.

Deconstruction

"elicit" comes from Latin "elicere," where "e-" means "out" and "licere" means "to entice or draw." So, "elicit" literally means "to draw out."

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation where you might want to elicit an honest opinion from someone?
• How would you try to elicit a smile from a sad friend?
• What kinds of questions do you think are good at eliciting detailed answers?