Evade: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is actively trying to escape from something they find unpleasant or dangerous, often by being clever or deceitful.

• He tried to evade the police by hiding in an abandoned building.
• She always evades questions about her past.

Used when someone stays away from something because they want to or it is best to. It’s more about conscious decision rather than action to run away.

• He avoids junk food to stay healthy.
• I try to avoid negative people.

Used when someone makes a sudden or quick movement to avoid something. It often applies to physical movement but can be used metaphorically.

• He dodged the ball just in time.
• She dodged the question by changing the topic.

Used when someone escapes from something using cleverness or skill, often implying that the pursuer cannot catch them.

• The criminal eluded capture for years.
• The solution to the problem eluded him for months.

Used when someone successfully gets away from a place or situation where they were trapped or confined.

• They managed to escape from the burning building.
• She escaped the monotonous routine by going on vacation.

Used when someone is trying to avoid something often in a skillful or sneaky manner. It typically involves effort and cunning.

• He tried to evade paying taxes by hiding his earnings.
• The criminal managed to evade the police.

Specifically implies avoiding responsibilities or duties, often in a lazy or dishonest manner. It has a negative connotation.

• He was known to shirk his duties whenever possible.
• She always manages to shirk her household chores.

Generally used when someone wishes to stay away from something or someone. It does not necessarily imply effort or skill.

• I try to avoid fast food for a healthier diet.
• She avoids talking to people she doesn't like.

Often implies a quick and sudden movement to get away from something physical or metaphorical. It can have a playful or negative connotation depending on the situation.

• He managed to dodge the flying ball just in time.
• They accused him of dodging his responsibilities.

Used when someone successfully gets away from a place or situation where they were trapped or confined.

• The prisoners were able to escape from the prison.
• She needed a way to escape her stressful job.