“Elusive” is an adjective that means hard to find, catch, or understand. If something is elusive, it keeps slipping away, whether it’s an animal, a person, a goal, or even an idea.
In everyday life, people say things like “sleep was elusive last night” when they couldn’t fall asleep, or “that perfect parking spot is always elusive” when they can never seem to find it. Friends might describe a busy coworker as “elusive” because he’s never around when you need him, or a runner might call the last mile “elusive” when their legs just won’t push any farther.
Meaning & Usage Examples
- The fox was so elusive that even experienced trackers lost its trail.
- After weeks of dieting, her target weight still felt elusive.
- He gave an elusive answer that left everyone guessing what he really meant.
Context / Common Use
People most often use “elusive” when talking about things they want but can’t quite reach—peace of mind, a good deal, or even someone’s attention. It adds a touch of frustration or mystery, hinting that the thing is almost within reach but keeps slipping away.
Is “elusive” only used for physical things?
No. You can say “an elusive memory” or “an elusive feeling,” so it works for ideas and emotions too.
Can “elusive” be positive?
Sometimes. Calling a perfume’s scent “delightfully elusive” can sound charming, suggesting it’s subtle and intriguing rather than frustrating.
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