fugitive
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfjuːdʒɪtɪv/
KK: /ˈfjuːdʒɪtɪv/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is temporary, fleeting, or difficult to hold onto; often used to refer to beauty or ideas that do not last long.
Example
The artist captured the fugitive light of the sunset in his painting.
Conversation
Did you catch that article about the artist's fugitive works?
Yeah, it was fascinating how their style changed so often.
Right? It’s like their creativity is always on the run, very fugitive in nature.
Exactly! I love how it reflects the fleeting moments of inspiration.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fleeting
ephemeral
transient
Antonyms
perpetual
lasting
enduring
noun
Definition
A person who is running away from the law or trying to escape from a place or situation.
Example
The police are searching for the fugitive who escaped from prison.
Conversation
Did you hear about that fugitive who escaped from prison?
Yeah, it was all over the news yesterday!
I wonder what he’s doing now as a fugitive.
Root Explanation
Fugitive → It is formed from "fugere" (meaning to flee) and the suffix "-tive" (indicating a tendency or quality). The word "fugitive" refers to someone who is fleeing or running away, often from the law or danger.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'fleeing' ('fugere') — that's why a fugitive is a person who is on the run.
Visually Confused Words
fruitive
unitive
tuitive
furtive
fictive