Elicit Laughs, Avoid Illicit Acts!

Elicit Laughs, Avoid Illicit Acts!

Elicit vs. Illicit: Understanding the Difference

Sometimes words in English sound the same but mean different things. “Elicit” and “illicit” are two of these words. Let’s learn about them.

History of the Words

Elicit: This word comes from a Latin word meaning “to draw out or bring forth.”

Illicit: This word also comes from Latin, meaning “not allowed” or “forbidden.”

How to Use Them

Elicit: We use “elicit” when we want to say “to get a reaction or answer from someone.”

• The teacher elicits answers from the students.
• He tried to elicit a smile from her.
• The song elicited memories of his childhood.
• The joke elicited laughter from the audience.
• Can you elicit more information from him?

Illicit: We use “illicit” when talking about something that is not allowed by law or rules.

• They were involved in illicit activities.
• Illicit trade is a big problem in some areas.
• The police are cracking down on illicit substances.
• He was arrested for illicit gambling.
• They had an illicit relationship.

Trick to Remember the Difference

A simple trick: Elicit starts with “E” for “Effort” to get something. Illicit starts with “I” like “Illegal,” which means not allowed.

Summary

Elicit is about getting a response or answer. Illicit is about something not allowed or illegal. Remember: Elicit relates to “effort” and Illicit to “illegal.”