Definition

The quality of avoiding giving direct answers or being clear about something.

Example

Her evasiveness during the interview made it hard to understand her true intentions.

Conversation

Have you noticed her evasiveness during the meeting?

Yeah, it was pretty hard to get a straight answer out of her.

I wonder if she's hiding something or just doesn't want to commit.

That could be it, but her evasiveness is definitely raising some eyebrows.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Evasiveness → It is formed from "evade" (from Latin "evadere", meaning to escape or avoid) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "evasiveness" refers to the quality of being able to escape or avoid something, often in a context of avoiding direct answers or responsibilities.

Memory Tip

Think of the idea of 'escaping' ('evade') from a situation, and the '-ness' indicates the quality of that action. This helps you remember that evasiveness is about the quality of avoiding directness.

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