Meaning & Definition of word "Evasive"
Evasive
/ɪˈveɪsɪv/
adjective:
- 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.
Etymology
●Derived from the Latin 'evadere', meaning 'to escape'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
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.
Slang Meanings of evasive
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.