elusive
Translation
difficult to find, hard to catch, evasive
Examples
Success has been an elusive goal for him.
Success has been an elusive goal for him.
The elusive memory was just out of reach.
The elusive memory was just out of reach.
Grammar Patterns
an ((elusive)) ((noun)) describing something hard to find or grasp He is searching for the elusive truth.
Similar Words
Synonyms: evasive, slippery, fleeting; Antonyms: attainable, clear
Etymology
From the verb 'elude' plus the adjective-forming suffix '-ive'. It means 'tending to elude'.
Memory Tips
If something is 'elusive', it is good at 'eluding' you.