Elicit vs. Illicit

"Elicit" and "illicit" are two words that are easy to confuse. They sound similar, but they have very different meanings. This guide will break down the difference and help you use them correctly.

The Basic Rule: To Draw Out vs. Illegal

Here's the one thing you need to remember:

• Elicit is a verb that means to draw out or to bring forth.
• Illicit is an adjective that means illegal or forbidden.

Elicit: To Draw Out

Elicit is always a verb. It's about getting a response or a piece of information from someone.

Examples of "Elicit"

• The teacher's question was designed to elicit a thoughtful response from the students.
• The comedian's jokes elicited a lot of laughter from the audience.
• A good journalist knows how to elicit information without being pushy.
• The survey is intended to elicit feedback from our customers.

A Simple Memory Trick

Think of it this way: To elicit is to evoke a response.

Illicit: Illegal or Forbidden

Illicit is always an adjective. It describes something that is not allowed by law or by social custom.

Examples of "Illicit"

• He was arrested for selling illicit drugs.
• The company was investigated for its illicit financial dealings.
• They were having an illicit affair.
• The government is trying to crack down on the illicit trade of endangered animals.

A Simple Memory Trick

Think of it this way: Illicit is illegal.

A Quick Test

1. Are you talking about drawing out a response? → Use elicit.
2. Are you describing something that is illegal or forbidden? → Use illicit.

Test Yourself

Choose the right word:

1. The police are trying to shut down the (elicit/illicit) gambling ring.
2. The goal of the therapy session is to (elicit/illicit) the patient's true feelings.
3. He was involved in an (elicit/illicit) arms deal.
4. The new ad campaign is designed to (elicit/illicit) an emotional response.
5. She has a taste for (elicit/illicit) romance.
6. The lawyer tried to (elicit/illicit) a confession from the witness.
7. The documentary exposed the company's (elicit/illicit) activities.
8. A good teacher can (elicit/illicit) curiosity in their students.
9. He was caught with (elicit/illicit) goods.
10. The survey questions were carefully worded to (elicit/illicit) honest answers.

Answer Key: 1. illicit, 2. elicit, 3. illicit, 4. elicit, 5. illicit, 6. elicit, 7. illicit, 8. elicit, 9. illicit, 10. elicit

Remember: To elicit is to evoke. Illicit is illegal. Master this simple trick, and you'll never mix them up again!