evasively.

1. In a way that avoids a direct answer, clear position, or firm commitment.

2. With movements intended to avoid being caught, struck, or followed.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• answer evasively
• respond evasively

On the page

Asked who had approved the change, he replied evasively.

Usage notes

Primary category: literary / elevated general. Forms: Invariable adverb. Legacy lexical fields mirror sense 1 only. Use numbered sense fields for all meanings. Established modern English lexical item. No separate regional spelling or grammatical inflection entry. Writing functions: description, character. Commonness: moderately common.