Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪˈveɪd/

Definitions

• 1. To escape or avoid, especially by cleverness or trickery.
• 2. To avoid fulfilling a duty, obligation, or responsibility.
• 3. To elude or escape detection, capture, or understanding.

Usage Examples

• "The thief managed to evade the police for several days."
• "He tried to evade his responsibilities by making excuses."
• "The criminal evaded capture by hiding in a remote location."

Etymology

The word "evade" comes from the Latin word "evadere," meaning "to escape" or "to get away." The prefix "ex-" meaning "out" and the root "vadere" meaning "to go" combine to form "evadere," implying a movement away from something. The word evolved into "evade" in Middle English in the 14th century, carrying the meaning of escaping or avoiding something.

Synonyms

• Avoid
• Elude
• Dodge
• Evacuate
• Escape
• Shun

Antonyms

• Confront
• Face
• Engage
• Meet
• Endure

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word is commonly pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable: /ɪˈveɪd/.
• In British English, the pronunciation may be slightly more clipped, but it still follows the same stress pattern: /ɪˈveɪd/.
• In Australian English, the pronunciation remains similar to British English, with the emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "evade" has been in use since the late Middle Ages and was used primarily in legal and military contexts, referring to the act of escaping or avoiding capture, punishment, or a duty. Over time, its meaning broadened to include any form of avoidance, whether through trickery, cunning, or deliberate neglect. The use of "evade" is common in both formal and informal contexts, especially in situations involving evasion of taxes, duties, or responsibilities.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the act of evading responsibility or avoiding unpleasant situations is viewed negatively, often associated with dishonesty or cowardice. However, in some cases, evasion can be seen as a strategic or tactical move, particularly in situations where survival or personal gain is at stake. For example, in the context of wartime or political resistance, evading capture might be considered a heroic act. In contrast, evading legal or social obligations can lead to negative perceptions and consequences.

More Information

The concept of evasion is frequently discussed in law, ethics, and psychology. In law, evading a legal process or duty can result in penalties or charges. In psychology, evasion can be seen as a defense mechanism where an individual avoids facing reality or uncomfortable truths. Understanding the nuances of evasion can help to distinguish between strategic avoidance and dishonest behavior. In many cases, the ability to evade effectively requires a high level of intelligence and awareness, and this skill is often explored in literature and film, especially in detective stories or spy thrillers.