Definition

Difficult to find, catch, or achieve; something that is hard to understand or define.

Example

The solution to the problem remained elusive despite many attempts to solve it.

Conversation

I was reading about success, and it seems so elusive sometimes.

Yeah, it really is. It feels like everyone has a different definition of it.

Exactly! I wish it were easier to figure out what truly matters.

Me too. Maybe we just need to focus on our own goals instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Elusive → It is formed from "eludere" (meaning to evade or escape) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "elusive" describes something that has the nature of evading or escaping capture or understanding.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'evades' or 'escapes' — that's why we call it elusive, as it has the nature of being hard to catch or understand.

Visually Confused Words