illusive
UK: ɪˈluːsɪv | US: ɪˈluːsɪv
adj. deceptive or misleading; creating a false impression
adj. based on illusion; unreal or imaginary
Derived from Latin illusus (past participle of illudere, "to mock or deceive"), combining il- (variant of in-, "not") and ludere ("to play"). The root lus reflects the idea of "playful trickery," evolving into English to describe things that deceive the senses or mind. The suffix -ive turns it into an adjective, emphasizing the quality of being misleading.
The magician's illusive tricks left the audience in awe.
His promises proved illusive, vanishing as quickly as they were made.
The desert mirage was an illusive oasis, taunting thirsty travelers.
She chased the illusive dream of perfection, never satisfied.
The spy's illusive identity made him nearly impossible to track.