ConfusableAges 15–20Elicit or illicit
To draw out a response or information.
The question elicited a strong reaction.
Not allowed by law or rules; illegal.
The police uncovered an illicit operation.
Remember: ELICIT starts with E, like Extract: you draw something out. ILLICIT starts with ILL, like ILLegal.
Quick check
The police uncovered an ____ operation.