Elicit: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when trying to provoke a response or gather information from someone, often through questioning or prompting.

• The teacher tried to elicit answers from the students.
• His jokes were meant to elicit laughter from the audience.

Typically used when removing something from a larger whole, often by force or with effort. Often used in medical or scientific contexts.

• The dentist extracted the tooth.
• They managed to extract key data from the report.

Used when something is obtained or comes from a specific source, often after some form of calculation or reasoning.

• Many English words derive from Latin.
• She derived great satisfaction from her work.

Used in a general sense when acquiring or getting something through effort or request.

• She managed to obtain a copy of the report.
• It is difficult to obtain a visa for travel.

Best used when trying to draw out a response, reaction, or piece of information from someone in a careful or intentional manner.

• The teacher's question was designed to elicit thoughtful responses from the students
• The survey aims to elicit honest feedback from customers

Commonly used when describing actions that cause someone to react, often in an angry or defensive way. This word has a negative connotation.

• His rude comments were intended to provoke a reaction from his opponent
• The unfair treatment provoked widespread outrage among the workers

Often used when referring to stirring up emotions, feelings, or senses, especially in a passionate or intense way.

• The movie's emotional scenes are sure to arouse intense feelings in the audience
• His speech managed to arouse a sense of excitement and motivation among the crowd

Typically used when something causes a particular event or reaction, often unexpectedly or suddenly. While not always negative, it can be used in contexts that describe negative emotional reactions.

• The news article triggered a heated debate on social media
• Loud noises can sometimes trigger anxiety in people with PTSD