Evasively

In a manner that avoids or escapes something, typically a question, accusation, or commitment. This might involve indirectness, ambiguity, or deliberate obfuscation to sidestep a direct answer or confrontation. evasively employed tactics often aim to protect oneself from potential harm, embarrassment, or responsibility. The intent is often to mislead or to buy time, postponing a direct response or action while subtly diverting attention. This behavior can range from a minor avoidance of an uncomfortable truth to a carefully constructed deception. It usually indicates a reluctance to engage directly with the presented topic or situation, prioritizing the avoidance of a potentially difficult outcome.

Evasively meaning with examples

• When questioned about the missing funds, the accountant answered evasively, claiming a 'temporary misplacement' and avoiding specifics. He subtly deflected blame onto an unnamed junior colleague while refusing to provide concrete documentation or clarify the exact amount or location of the funds. This response raised immediate suspicions about his intentions and culpability.
• The politician, when confronted about his questionable past dealings, responded evasively, offering vague pronouncements and platitudes instead of addressing the specific accusations directly. He used complex legal jargon and shifted the topic to unrelated policy issues. The lack of a forthright answer led the public to question his integrity.
• During the tense negotiations, the union representative spoke evasively, promising to 'consider all options' but declining to confirm or deny the possibility of a strike. The spokesperson gave a general statement with very little useful information, but offered no clear indication of their actual position or willingness to compromise.
• The witness, under cross-examination, answered the lawyer's pointed questions evasively, claiming a faulty memory and repeatedly offering incomplete or non-responsive answers. They avoided eye contact and attempted to manipulate the sequence of events in their testimony, hoping to obscure crucial details. The jury grew skeptical.
• Instead of admitting to their mistake, the children answered evasively, blaming each other and providing improbable excuses for the broken vase. They shifted responsibility and avoided directly taking ownership of their actions. Their denial indicated an immature attempt to escape consequences and responsibility.