Synonyms for

Elusive

Verb / ɪˈlu:sɪv / Another word for elusive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Elusive means difficult to find, catch, or achieve.

Synonyms & similar words

tough problematic knotty problematical subtle baffling evasive slippery tricky elusory hard-to-catch escaping fugitive intangible transient imperceptible inconspicuous hard-to-find ambiguous unclear vague obscure mysterious cryptic enigmatic puzzling

Synonyms by register

Formal

intangible unobtainable unfathomable impalpable

Informal

slippery hard to pin down tricky cunning

Literary

fugitive phantasmal

Antonyms

obvious apparent clear plain evident manifest tangible

Common collocations

  • elusive goal
  • elusive nature
  • elusive answer
  • elusive meaning
  • elusive target
  • elusive quality
  • elusive proof

Word family

noun elusiveness
adjective elusive
adverb elusively

Usage note

Often used to describe things that are difficult to grasp, understand, or catch, whether literally or figuratively. Can imply something is intentionally evasive or simply hard to find.

Example sentences

  1. The elusive criminal escaped from the police.
  2. I have been looking for my misplaced keys, but they are elusive.
  3. The answer to the puzzle was elusive.
  4. The butterfly was too elusive to catch.
  5. The ghost was an elusive figure in the old mansion.

Quotes

  • Truth is elusive, it depends on where you stand.
  • Happiness is elusive. It comes and goes.
  • Success is elusive. It takes hard work and determination.

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