Elicit vs. Solicit

Attribute	Elicit	Solicit
Definition	To draw out or bring forth	To ask for or seek to obtain
Usage	Commonly used in the context of information or emotions	Commonly used in the context of opinions or feedback
Intent	To uncover or reveal something hidden or unknown	To request or invite a response or input
Method	Typically involves questioning, prompting, or provoking a response	Typically involves requesting, inviting, or seeking feedback or opinions

Definition

Both elicit and solicit are verbs that involve obtaining information or assistance from someone. Elicit means to draw out or evoke a response, information, or reaction from someone. It often involves asking questions or engaging in conversation to get a desired response. Solicit, on the other hand, means to ask for something, typically in a formal or official way. It can involve requesting help, advice, money, or other forms of assistance.

Usage

Elicit is commonly used in situations where someone is trying to gather information or opinions from others. For example, a researcher might elicit responses from study participants in order to gather data for a study. Solicit, on the other hand, is often used in more formal contexts, such as when someone is asking for donations or seeking support for a cause. It can also be used in a legal context, such as when a lawyer solicits testimony from a witness.

Intent

The intent behind eliciting information is usually to gain a better understanding of a situation or to gather data for analysis. It is often used in research, therapy, and other fields where information gathering is important. Soliciting, on the other hand, is typically done with the intent of obtaining a specific response or action from someone. This could be asking for donations, seeking advice, or requesting assistance with a task.

Approach

When it comes to approach, eliciting information is often done in a more open-ended and conversational manner. It involves asking questions, listening actively, and encouraging the other person to share their thoughts and opinions. Soliciting, on the other hand, is usually more direct and to the point. It often involves making a specific request or asking for a specific response from the other person.

Context

Elicit is often used in contexts where the goal is to gather information or opinions from others. This could be in a research setting, a therapy session, or a classroom discussion. Solicit, on the other hand, is often used in contexts where the goal is to ask for help, support, or assistance from others. This could be in a fundraising campaign, a job application, or a legal proceeding.

Effectiveness

Both eliciting and soliciting can be effective ways of obtaining information or assistance from others, but their effectiveness may depend on the context and the individuals involved. Eliciting information through open-ended questions and active listening can help create a more engaging and productive conversation. Soliciting assistance through direct requests and clear communication can help ensure that the other person understands what is being asked of them.