What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elusory
Example
The magician's elusory tricks left the audience in awe. [elusory: adjective]
Example
The mirage in the desert was an elusory image. [elusory: adjective]
elusive
Example
The elusive criminal managed to escape from the police yet again. [elusive: adjective]
Example
The concept of happiness is often elusive and hard to define. [elusive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Elusive is more commonly used than elusory in everyday language. Elusive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while elusory is less common and refers specifically to something that is deceptive or misleading.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between elusory and elusive?
Both elusory and elusive are formal words that are typically used in academic or professional contexts. However, elusive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
