Elicit: Drawing Out or Evoking
Elicit, a verb, is used to describe the act of drawing out information, reactions, or responses from someone or something:
- Information Retrieval: Describes extracting information or confessions through skillful questioning.
Example: “The detective skillfully elicited a confession from the suspect.” - Reactions or Emotions: Indicates evoking or bringing forth reactions, emotions, or responses.
Example: “The speaker’s words elicited a powerful emotional response from the audience.” - Responses and Feedback: Highlights the intention to obtain specific individual reactions or feedback.
Example: “The survey was designed to elicit honest feedback from the participants.”
Illicit: Unlawful or Forbidden
Illicit, an adjective, refers to something unlawful, forbidden, or not permitted by law or custom:
- Unlawful Actions: Describes actions or behaviors that are against the law.
Example: “Engaging in illicit activities can lead to legal consequences.” - Forbidden Relationships: Highlights relationships or activities that are socially or morally forbidden.
Example: “Their relationship faced societal disapproval due to its illicit nature.” - Contraband or Prohibited Goods: Refers to goods or items that are prohibited or banned.
Example: “Customs confiscated the illicit goods at the border.”
Strategies for Differentiation
- Drawing Out vs. Unlawful
Understand that elicit involves drawing out information or reactions, while illicit pertains to actions or behaviors that are unlawful or forbidden. - Part of Speech
Recognize that elicit is a verb describing an action, while illicit is an adjective describing the nature of something as forbidden.
