General synonyms:
* Escape: This is a very common synonym, often used when talking about physically getting away from something.
* Avoid: This implies intentional effort to stay away from something.
* Evade: Similar to avoid, but often with a stronger sense of cunning or trickery.
* Dodge: This implies a quick or agile movement to avoid something.
* Miss: This can be used when something is not achieved or something is not found.
* Defy: This suggests resisting or refusing to be caught or understood.
More specific synonyms:
* Circumvent: To avoid something by going around it, often in a clever or strategic way.
* Outwit: To use intelligence or cunning to get ahead of someone or something.
* Outmaneuver: To outsmart or outwit someone in a situation.
* Baffle: To confuse or puzzle someone.
* Mystify: To make something unclear or difficult to understand.
The best synonym for "elude" will depend on the specific situation and the intended meaning.
For example, if you're talking about someone trying to escape the police, "escape" would be a good choice. If you're talking about a mystery that's difficult to solve, "baffle" or "mystify" might be more appropriate.