elusive
/iˈluːsɪv/
Group 33Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Difficult to find, catch, or achieve GRE
Example in Context
The elusive quality that separates competent writing from great literature is something that critics can recognize but struggle to define.
Synonyms
hard to catchslipperyevasive
Etymology
From Latin meaning to evade, suggesting something hard to catch.
- eludere (Latin) — to evade
Memory Aid
🪣Sounds like “a-loose-sieve”
Trying to catch water with a LOOSE SIEVE feels as ELUSIVE as catching a ghost!
Visual Association
👻A ghost slipping through fingers while someone tries to catch it with a sieve.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “elusive” mean on the GRE?
elusive (adjective) means “Difficult to find, catch, or achieve”. The elusive quality that separates competent writing from great literature is something that critics can recognize but struggle to define.
How to remember “elusive” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “elusive” sounds like “a-loose-sieve”. Trying to catch water with a LOOSE SIEVE feels as ELUSIVE as catching a ghost!
What are synonyms for “elusive”?
Common synonyms: hard to catch, slippery, evasive.