Question

Choose the correct synonym for the following word.
ELICIT

a)Induce
b)Extract
c)Divulge
d)Instil

Answer 1

Hint: The word given to us, elicit means to draw forth or bring out something such as a reaction, response, or information. It is a verb. We should know that a verb is used to convey action.

Complete step by step solution:

Synonyms are words that have the same meaning. Thus, the synonym of elicit must have the same meaning. From the hint given to us, we understand the meaning of the given word. It is a verb which means that it indicates the action to draw out something. For example, The comedian’s jokes elicited the laughter from the audience.
Now that we have understood the meaning of the given word, let us analyze the given options in order to find the correct synonym.
Induce means to cause something. It is a verb.
For example, The drugs were prescribed to induce sleep.
We observe that it does not exactly have the same meaning as elicit. Therefore, we can say that option ‘a’ is not the correct answer.
Extract means to bring out or to take out. It is a verb.
For example, She managed to successfully extract the answers from the suspect.
We observe that it has the same meaning as elicit. Therefore, we can conclude that option ‘b’ is the correct answer.
Divulge means to disclose or reveal something. It is a verb.
For example: Despite a prolonged interrogation, the suspect did not divulge any details.
We observe that it does not exactly have the same meaning as elicit. Therefore, we can say that option ‘c’ is not the correct answer.
Instil means to gradually implant or establish an idea or a feeling in a person’s mind. It is a verb. For example It is the duty of a parent to instil good values in a child,
We observe that it does not exactly have the same meaning as elicit. Therefore, we can say that option ‘d’ is not the correct answer.

Note: While induce might seem to be similar in meaning to elicit, the extract is a more accurate synonym for it. In order to avoid such confusion, it is essential that we understand the meaning of the given word correctly.