Elicitation is described as:

Elicitation is primarily recognized as a technique for gathering information in a subtle or indirect manner, often employed by individuals who aim to collect sensitive or classified data without drawing attention to themselves. This method is particularly effective when an insider, who has established credibility and rapport, uses it to extract information from colleagues or other sources within an organization.

The nuances of elicitation allow for a conversational approach that encourages the target to share information, often without realizing the extent of what is being disclosed. This technique is not merely about asking direct questions but involves skillfully steering casual discussions to reveal useful insights, making the insider’s context crucial to its success.

Other choices do not capture the essence of elicitation effectively. While some might suggest various forms of communication or questioning techniques, they lack the critical element of employing indirect methods to gain information surreptitiously, which is foundational to the concept of elicitation.