Elicit is a verb meaning draw out a response. Illicit is an adjective describing something forbidden by law or rules. Check whether the word names an action or describes what kind of activity it is.
Compare the verb and the adjective
- “The interviewer asked a follow-up question to elicit more detail.” The question is meant to draw out information.
- “The article examined the illicit trade in stolen artwork.” The adjective describes a prohibited trade.
Use the surrounding words
In “elicit a response from the panel,” the verb tells you what the questioner hopes to do. In “an illicit transaction,” the adjective tells you what kind of transaction it was.
Try it
“The curator hoped to ___ information about the painting’s ___ sale.”
Show the answer
Use elicit for drawing out information and illicit to describe the forbidden sale.
See also Adverse vs. Averse.
