Here are some synonyms of "elicit" and an analysis of their meanings and usage:
1. Educe
- Meaning: "Educe" means to draw out or bring out something, such as information, a response, or a quality. It often implies a process of extraction through careful questioning, coaxing, or other means. For example, "The teacher's skillful questions educe intelligent responses from the students."
- Usage difference from "elicit": "Educe" is a more formal and less commonly used word than "elicit." It has a sense of a more deliberate and perhaps more intellectual process of drawing out. "Elicit" is more general and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including more casual situations.
2. Evoke
- Meaning: "Evoke" means to bring to mind or call forth a feeling, memory, or response. It emphasizes the power of a stimulus to trigger an emotional or mental reaction. For example, "The old photograph evoked memories of his childhood."
- Usage difference from "elicit": "Evoke" is more focused on the arousal of emotions, memories, or abstract responses. "Elicit" is broader and can refer to obtaining any kind of response, including factual information or a physical reaction. For example, you can elicit an answer from someone, but you evoke a feeling of nostalgia.
3. Extract
- Meaning: "Extract" means to take out or obtain something, especially by using force or effort. In the context of information or a response, it implies a more forceful or determined process of getting something. For example, "The detective tried to extract a confession from the suspect."
- Usage difference from "elicit": "Extract" often has a stronger connotation of a more forceful or persistent attempt to obtain something. "Elicit" can imply a more gentle or skillful way of drawing out a response. You might elicit a smile from someone with a kind word, but you'd extract a secret through more intense interrogation.
4. Draw out
- Meaning: "Draw out" means to cause something to come out, extend, or last longer. It can refer to physical objects or more abstract things like conversations or talents. For example, "The coach tried to draw out the best in each player."
- Usage difference from "elicit": "Draw out" is a more phrasal and flexible expression. It can have a broader range of meanings related to elongation or enhancement. "Elicit" is more specifically about getting a particular response. You can draw out a story by asking more questions, but you elicit a specific detail from a person.
5. Provoke
- Meaning: "Provoke" means to stimulate or incite someone to do or feel something, often something negative or aggressive. For example, "His rude remarks provoked an angry response from the crowd."
- Usage difference from "elicit": "Provoke" usually implies a more intense or controversial way of getting a reaction. The responses it elicits are often emotional and may lead to conflict. "Elicit" is more neutral and can refer to a wider range of responses, including positive and calm ones.