evasively
Definition
Adverb: * In a manner that avoids giving a direct, clear, or honest answer; ambiguously or deceptively to escape commitment or scrutiny.
Usage
The adverb "evasively" describes how someone speaks or acts. It is used to modify verbs related to communication (e.g., reply, answer, speak, respond, say) to indicate the speaker is being deliberately unclear or non-committal.
Examples
- The politician answered the reporter's question evasively, never addressing the core issue.
- "I'm not sure I recall the exact sequence of events," she said evasively.
- When confronted about the missing funds, the manager responded evasively, changing the subject.
Advanced Usage
- To behave evasively: This extends the concept beyond speech to include general conduct aimed at avoiding a subject or responsibility.
- The suspect was behaving evasively, avoiding eye contact and giving inconsistent details.
Variants and Related Words
- Evasive (adjective): Characterized by evasion.
- He gave an evasive answer.
- Evasion (noun): The act of evading.
- Tax evasion is a crime.
Synonyms
- Ambiguously
- Indirectly
- Equivocally
- Elusively
Antonyms
- Directly
- Frankly
- Candidly
- Forthrightly
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To dodge the question: A common phrase similar to answering evasively.
- Instead of giving a yes or no, he dodged the question entirely.
Adverb
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with evasion; in an evasive manner
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her husband seemed to know many of the people who were named, but he replied evasively when asked who they were
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