Elude - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To elude means to escape or avoid something skillfully, such as danger, capture, or understanding. It can also describe something difficult to grasp or remember, like a forgotten name.
Definition:
To evade or escape from someone or something, often cleverly or skillfully.
Synonyms:
evade, avoid, escape, dodge, shake off
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
confront, encounter
Common Collocations:
elude capture, elude detection, elude the police, elude understanding
Derivatives:
elusive, elusion
Usage Tips:
Use "elude" when describing avoiding capture or understanding through cleverness or skill; not for physical escapes alone.
Common Phrases:
elude the grasp of, elude one's memory, give someone the slip
Etymology:
From Latin "eludere," meaning "to deceive or evade," combining "e-" (out) and "ludere" (to play).
Examples:
- 1. The suspect managed to elude the police for weeks.
- 2. The answer continues to elude scientists despite years of research.
- 3. She tried to elude her responsibilities by leaving town.
- 4. The butterfly's quick movements helped it elude the predator.