Explicit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔞
Add to dictionary

explicit

[ɪkˈsplɪsɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

inappropriate content

Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt. Often used in the context of inappropriate content.

Synonyms

clear, definite, precise, specific, unambiguous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
explicit

Used when something is stated in a detailed and direct manner, leaving no room for confusion or interpretation. Often related to instructions, rules, or content warnings.

  • The teacher gave explicit instructions on how to complete the assignment
  • The movie has explicit content, so viewer discretion is advised
clear

Used to describe something that is easy to understand, with no ambiguity or confusion. Can be used in various situations from explanations to visuals.

  • Can you make sure your handwriting is clear so I can read it? She gave a clear explanation of the project requirements
precise

Used when something is exact, accurate, and free from errors, often related to measurements, details, or language.

  • The architect's plans were very precise
  • He gave a precise description of the suspect
unambiguous

Used when something can only be interpreted in one way, leaving no doubt or confusion. Often used in legal or scientific contexts.

  • The law must be unambiguous so that everyone understands it
  • His message was unambiguous and left no room for interpretation
definite

Used when talking about something that is certain and not likely to change, often associated with plans, decisions, or answers.

  • We need a definite answer by tomorrow
  • There is a definite need for improvement in the system
specific

Used when referring to a particular thing and not something general. It is often used when details are important.

  • Can you be more specific about your requirements? She asked for a specific color of paint

Examples of usage

  • The movie contains explicit scenes of violence and nudity.
  • The song lyrics were deemed too explicit for radio play.
Context #2 | Adjective

language

Expressed with forthright or outspoken clarity. Often used in the context of language.

Synonyms

candid, clear-cut, plain, unequivocal, unmistakable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
explicit

When you need to convey information in a very detailed and direct manner, often to avoid misunderstanding or ambiguity.

  • The instructions were explicit in highlighting every step to follow
  • The movie contains some explicit scenes, so it is rated for mature audiences
clear-cut

When a situation or decision is obvious and not up for debate, often used to describe distinctions or choices that are easily understood.

  • There was a clear-cut winner in the competition
  • The issue is not clear-cut; it requires more discussion
plain

Applied when describing something that is simple and easy to understand, without any complicated details or embellishments.

  • The instructions were written in plain language
  • She prefers plain clothing without any patterns
unmistakable

Suitable when referring to something that is so clear that it cannot be confused with anything else.

  • The scent of fresh cookies was unmistakable
  • Her joy was unmistakable, evident from her wide smile
unequivocal

Best used when needing to express something that is absolutely clear and leaves no room for doubt.

  • The CEO gave an unequivocal statement regarding the company's policy
  • The evidence is unequivocal; there is no doubt about his guilt
candid

Use this when you want to describe someone who is open and honest, often in a way that is refreshingly straightforward.

  • She gave a candid interview about the challenges she faced
  • His candid feedback helped improve the project

Examples of usage

  • She was very explicit about her expectations for the project.
  • He used explicit language in his critique of the book.
Context #3 | Adjective

implicit

Fully and clearly expressed; leaving nothing merely implied. Often used in contrast to implicit.

Synonyms

categorical, clear, express, specific, univocal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
explicit

Used when describing something fully and clearly expressed, leaving no room for confusion.

  • The instructions were explicit and easy to follow.
  • He was very explicit about what he wanted.
clear

Commonly used in everyday language to describe something easy to understand or transparent.

  • Her message was clear and concise.
  • The water in the lake is clear.
specific

Used when focusing on a particular item or detail with precision.

  • He asked for a specific brand of cereal.
  • Can you be more specific about your needs?
categorical

Used when something is stated clearly and without any doubt, often formal or authoritative.

  • She gave a categorical denial that she was involved.
  • His decision was categorical and final.
express

Often used to describe something specifically stated or directly communicated.

  • He gave his express permission to use the car.
  • She made an express statement about her feelings.
univocal

Used in formal contexts to describe something that has a single, clear meaning.

  • The instructions were univocal, leaving no room for interpretation.
  • His reply was univocal and straightforward.

Examples of usage

  • His explicit instructions left no room for interpretation.
  • The contract had explicit clauses outlining the terms of agreement.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Explicit content in music can refer to lyrics that contain strong language, describing violence or adult themes.
  • Movies with explicit scenes often have ratings like R or NC-17, indicating they are meant for adult audiences.
  • Books categorized as explicit can include graphic details meant for mature readers, influencing discussions around censorship.

Science

  • In psychology, explicit memory refers to memories that can be consciously recalled, like facts and events.
  • Explicit learning occurs when a person deliberately tries to learn something, as opposed to incidental learning which happens naturally.
  • In computer science, explicit programming languages require clear instructions, promoting code clarity and overall understanding.

Literature

  • Authors may use explicit descriptions to vividly portray scenes, emotions, or character actions, enhancing reader engagement.
  • Explicit themes often generate debate about morality and social norms in literary discussions, especially in modern texts.
  • The use of explicit language and concepts often reflects cultural attitudes and societal changes over time in literature.

Education

  • In teaching, explicit instruction is a model where educators give clear and direct explanation or demonstration of concepts.
  • Educational resources often label content as explicit when they describe or involve sensitive topics, ensuring appropriate audience awareness.
  • Research shows that explicit feedback in learning situations can significantly enhance student understanding and performance.

Origin of 'explicit'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'explicitus', meaning 'unfolded' or 'expressed'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally used in a scholarly context.
  • Over time, the meaning expanded to include clarity and detail in various contexts, including law and media.

The word 'explicit' originated from the Latin word 'explicitus', meaning 'unrolled' or 'unfolded'. In medieval manuscripts, the term 'explicit' was used to signify the end of a text or section. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent something that is clearly stated or expressed without ambiguity. The modern usage of 'explicit' to describe content as being clear, detailed, or forthright emerged in the 17th century and has since become a common term in various contexts.


See also: explicitly, explicitness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,225, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.