Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

elicit-a-reaction

Phrase

/ɪˈlɪsɪt ə rɪˈækʃən/

Definition

To draw out a response or reaction from someone.

Examples

Asking direct questions can often elicit a reaction from participants in a discussion.
The movie’s intense scenes were designed to elicit a reaction from the audience.
Her unexpected statement was meant to elicit a reaction from her peers.

Meaning

When you elicit a reaction, you are prompting someone to respond in a certain way, whether it’s an emotion or an action, often by asking questions or presenting a certain situation.