Evasiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is trying to avoid giving a clear or direct answer.

• The politician's evasiveness about her policies caused frustration among the voters

Describes the act of avoiding something, such as a question or a responsibility.

• Her evasion of his questions about the budget raised suspicions

Usually used to describe the use of ambiguous language to conceal the truth or to avoid committing oneself, often with a negative connotation.

• His equivocation during the interview made it difficult to understand his true stance on the issue

Refers to a situation where something can be understood in more than one way and it's unclear which meaning is intended.

• The ambiguity in the contract led to confusion between the parties

Used to describe someone avoiding giving a direct answer, especially in conversations or discussions.

• His evasiveness made it clear he was hiding something
• The politician's evasiveness during the interview frustrated the audience

Describes something or someone that is hard to find, catch, or achieve.

• The elusiveness of the rare bird makes it a thrilling challenge for bird watchers
• Success in the industry has an air of elusiveness for many

Carries a negative connotation, implying suspicion or dishonesty in someone's behavior or appearance.

• His shiftiness made everyone in the room uncomfortable
• The shiftiness of his glance suggested he was not telling the truth

Used when someone actively avoids facing an issue, physical confrontation, or responsibility.

• He kept dodging questions about his involvement in the scandal
• She is good at dodging difficult tasks at work