elusive
What does "elusive" mean?
The word "elusive" describes something that is difficult to find, catch, achieve, or remember. Imagine trying to hold onto smoke or a slippery fish; it is the feeling of something just beyond your grasp, whether it is a physical object, a vague memory, or a complex concept like success. It is typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts to describe abstract goals or tricky subjects. You will often hear it paired with nouns like "answer," "goal," "dream," or "criminal." It suggests a sense of frustration or mystery, implying that the thing being sought is intentionally or naturally difficult to pin down.
"elusive" in conversation
Discussing a difficult math problem
I’ve been staring at this equation for hours, but the solution remains elusive.
I’ve been staring at this equation for hours, but the solution remains elusive.
Maybe we should take a break and look at it with fresh eyes.
Maybe we should take a break and look at it with fresh eyes.
Used here to express that an answer is mentally out of reach.
Talking about a rare animal
The snow leopard is incredibly elusive; we are lucky if we spot one.
The snow leopard is incredibly elusive; we are lucky if we spot one.
I understand, I'm just happy to be in their habitat.
I understand, I'm just happy to be in their habitat.
Used here to describe a creature that is hard to track or encounter.
"elusive" in a sentence
The meaning of the poem remained elusive.
The meaning of the poem remained elusive.
He has been chasing the elusive dream of becoming a professional athlete for years.
He has been chasing the elusive dream of becoming a professional athlete for years.
Despite extensive police efforts, the elusive suspect managed to vanish without a trace.
Despite extensive police efforts, the elusive suspect managed to vanish without a trace.
