Elusiveness

Elusiveness refers to the quality of being difficult to grasp, understand, define, or capture. It's a characteristic of something that seems to slip away or evade observation, definition, or a concrete understanding. This can apply to tangible objects, abstract concepts, or even individuals. Often, elusiveness is associated with mystery, ambiguity, and the frustrating experience of trying to pin something down that seems perpetually out of reach. The nature of elusiveness can range from simple avoidance to complex concealment, making it a fascinating, though sometimes vexing, attribute.

Elusiveness meaning with examples

• The criminal's elusiveness was a constant source of frustration for the police. He always managed to stay one step ahead, leaving behind a trail of red herrings. Despite an intensive manhunt, the suspect's elusiveness made it impossible to apprehend him. His ability to vanish without a trace was baffling.
• The beauty of the dreamscape lay in its elusiveness. Trying to recount the details always made it blur, like sand through one's fingers. Its abstract nature added to its elusiveness. The dream's significance, and how it tied into our waking lives, was something we were still unable to fully grasp.
• The concept of time's elusiveness has captivated philosophers for centuries. Is it a constant flow or a series of discrete moments? Its shifting nature and subjective experience exemplify its elusiveness. The harder one tries to define it, the more its essence seems to dissolve.
• The author's style was marked by a deliberate elusiveness. She danced around the core themes, using metaphor and symbolism to create an air of mystery and complexity. The novel's ambiguity and indirect storytelling style were designed to enhance its elusiveness. It required a degree of effort from the reader.
• The allure of the spy's life often stems from its inherent elusiveness. They live in the shadows, operating in secrecy and concealing their true identities. The success of their missions often relies upon their elusiveness. They can be both fascinating and terrifying.