Synonym Chooser

How does the verb educe contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of educe are elicit, evoke, extort, and extract. While all these words mean "to draw out something hidden, latent, or reserved," educe implies the bringing out of something potential or latent.

educed order out of chaos

In what contexts can elicit take the place of educe?

The meanings of elicit and educe largely overlap; however, elicit usually implies some effort or skill in drawing forth a response.

careful questioning elicited the truth

When can evoke be used instead of educe?

The words evoke and educe are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, evoke implies a strong stimulus that arouses an emotion or an interest or recalls an image or memory.

a song that evokes warm memories

When is it sensible to use extort instead of educe?

The synonyms extort and educe are sometimes interchangeable, but extort suggests a wringing or wresting from one who resists strongly.

extorted their cooperation by threatening to inform

When would extract be a good substitute for educe?

The words extract and educe can be used in similar contexts, but extract implies the use of force or pressure in obtaining answers or information.

extracted a confession from him

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for educe
Verb
  • Before calling Madore to the witness stand, Sommer elicited testimony from a criminal attorney not affiliated with the case to support the estate’s claim officer lapel video released to the public could create a security concern.
    Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 31 Mar. 2025
  • His deft timing provides most laughs in the film, along with Garg’s keen awareness of how to hit a punchline (and later on, elicit tears).
    Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 31 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The electronics against a mini orchestra—bass, flute, sax, clarinet, percussion—evoke a full, underwater soundscape, like you’re submerged in a comforting dream, or another life.
    Kate Branch, Vogue, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Warm neutrals evoke relaxation, which is ideal for hospitality brands.
    Bryant Richardson, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The collection’s color palette of taupe, beige and white was inspired by Palazzo Pitti, the Renaissance palace in Florence where Brioni first staged a men’s runway show in 1952.
    Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 28 Mar. 2025
  • The styles are inspired by the Art Deco period, as well as the American Southwest, which can be seen in the bold designs that veer on modernity while still being classic.
    Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Educe.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/educe. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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