WordValeexplicit
stated clearly and in detail
stated clearly and openly
In more detail
1. (adjective) stated clearly and in detail, leaving nothing to the imagination
2. (adjective) containing clear descriptions of sex or violence that some people find offensive
Examples
- 1. The teacher gave explicit instructions on how to complete the assignment.
- 2. The film has explicit content and is not suitable for children.
How to use explicit
Explicit means stated so clearly and directly that there is no room for doubt or misinterpretation. It is used both in formal contexts (explicit agreement, explicit rules) and to describe frank sexual or violent material. The word carries no inherent judgment when describing clarity, but often implies caution or warning when describing mature content.
Common phrases
- explicit consent
- explicit instructions
- explicit content
- explicit language
- be explicit about something
Synonyms
clear · unambiguous · direct · precise · unequivocal
Opposites
implicit · vague · ambiguous
Word family
explicitly (adverb) · explicitness (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse explicit with implicit, which means the opposite: implied rather than directly stated. Also, some assume explicit always refers to sexual or violent content, when it primarily means clear and detailed.
Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.
Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD