Elicit or Illicit?

search our site by Craig Shrives

What Is the Difference between "Elicit" and "Illicit"?

"Elicit" and "illicit" are easy to confuse because they sound so similar (i.e., they are nearly homonyms).

• Elicit. "Elicit" means to draw out or to obtain (usually information). For example:
• Act like you're his friend in order to elicit more information.
• Illicit "Illicit" means illegal. For example:
• We found thousands of cartons of illicit cigarettes.

More about "Elicit" and "Illicit"

Elicit

The verb "to elicit" means to obtain. It has the connotation of actively obtaining something (usually information). It can often be translated as to draw out, to extract, to obtain information, to deduce, or to construe.

Example sentences with "elicit":

• Have a chat with the boss at lunch and see what information you can elicit.
(See what information you can extract.)
• His questioning sought to elicit the conclusion reached before the hearing began.
(His questioning sought to draw out the conclusion.)
• Fog always seems to elicit strong feelings of melancholy.
(Fog always seems to draw out strong feelings.)

Illicit

The adjective "illicit" means illegal or contrary to accepted morality (i.e., naughty).

Example sentences with "illicit":

• The act seeks to prevent the illicit trafficking of narcotics.
• We have been told to expect a purge on illicit file-sharing web sites.

Top Tip

Elicit Means Extract
Let the first letter of elicit remind you that it means extract.

Illicit Means Illegal
Let the first three letters of illicit remind you that it means illegal.

Common Terms with "Elicit" and "Illicit"

Common terms with "elicit":

• elicit a response
• elicit a reaction
• elicit an emotion
• elicit information
• elicit knowledge

Common terms with "illicit":

• illicit affair
• illicit auction
• illicit cigarettes
• illicit drugs
• illicit relationship

Ready for the Test?