Meaning & Definition of word "Evasive"

Evasive

/ɪˈveɪsɪv/

1. Tending to avoid commitment or self-revelation, especially by responding only indirectly.
- Example: When asked about his plans for the future, he gave an evasive answer that left everyone confused.
2. Designed to elude or escape from a difficult situation.
- Example: The politician's evasive remarks during the interview did not satisfy the reporter's inquiries.
3. Characterized by a tendency to avoid giving clear or direct answers.
- Example: Her evasive responses made it difficult for anyone to understand her true feelings on the subject.
4. Not straightforward; misleading.
- Example: His evasive explanations about the incident raised more questions than they answered.

Derived from the Latin 'evadere', meaning 'to escape'.

playing it close to the vest:

Being secretive or not sharing information openly.

beating around the bush:

Avoiding the main topic or not speaking directly about an issue.

dodging questions:

Avoiding giving a direct answer when asked something.

evade:

To escape or avoid, especially by cleverness.

elude:

To evade or escape from a danger, enemy, or pursuer.

avoid:

To keep away from or stop oneself from doing something.

Meaning: Playing coy

Example Sentence: She was playing coy, avoiding giving a straight answer all night.

Meaning: Being shady

Example Sentence: His shady answers made me think he was being evasive.