explicit
/ɪkˈsplɪs.ɪt/- 1.
Something explicit is stated clearly and in full, with nothing left to guess or assume. You do not need to read between the lines to understand it.
- The manager gave explicit instructions to the new employee.
- Please be explicit about your requirements from the start.
- The contract has explicit terms about deadlines and payment.
- 2.
Used to describe content — such as images, language, or video — that openly shows or describes something sexual or violent. This sense is common in media and content warnings.
- The film contains explicit scenes and is not suitable for children.
- The song was flagged for its explicit lyrics.
Adinary Nuance
Explicit is often used alongside clear, specific, and direct, but they are not the same thing. Clear means easy to understand; specific means precise in detail; but explicit means something is fully and deliberately stated — nothing is left to be inferred. The natural opposite of explicit is implicit: if rules are explicit, every point is written out; if implicit, you are expected to figure some things out yourself. In academic and IELTS writing, explicit carries real weight — "explicit consent" or "explicit reference to" signals that something was officially and openly stated, not merely assumed or implied.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Rõ ràng, tường minh
- Spanish
- Explícito
- Chinese
- 明确的
- Japanese
- 明示的な
- Korean
- 명시적인
Etymology
From Latin explicitus, the past participle of explicare meaning "to unfold" or "to make plain." The word entered English in the early 17th century and has kept its core sense of "fully laid out" ever since.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between explicit and implicit?
- Explicit means something is fully and directly stated. Implicit means it is suggested or understood without being said outright. For example, explicit rules are written down clearly; implicit rules are social expectations you are expected to already know.
- Is 'explicit' a formal word?
- Yes, 'explicit' leans formal and is common in academic writing, legal documents, and professional communication. In casual conversation, people often say 'clear' or 'specific' instead.
- Does 'explicit' always refer to adult or sexual content?
- No. In everyday and academic English, 'explicit' simply means 'clearly and fully stated.' The adult-content meaning is a specific use, mostly in media ratings and warnings. Both meanings share the idea of 'openly shown' — nothing hidden.
- How do I use 'explicit' in an IELTS essay?
- Try phrases like 'explicit reference to,' 'explicit statement of,' or 'no explicit mention of.' These show you are pointing to something directly stated in a text, which signals strong analytical reading to examiners.