Explicit: meaning, definitions and examples

🔞
Add to dictionary

explicit

 

[ ɪkˈsplɪsɪt ]

Adjective
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

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

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

Examples of usage

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

Translations

Translations of the word "explicit" in other languages:

🇵🇹 explícito

🇮🇳 स्पष्ट

🇩🇪 explizit

🇮🇩 eksplisit

🇺🇦 явний

🇵🇱 wyraźny

🇯🇵 明示的

🇫🇷 explicite

🇪🇸 explícito

🇹🇷 açık

🇰🇷 명시적인

🇸🇦 صريح

🇨🇿 explicitní

🇸🇰 explicitný

🇨🇳 明确的

🇸🇮 izrecen

🇮🇸 skýrt

🇰🇿 айқын

🇬🇪 აშკარა

🇦🇿 açıq

🇲🇽 explícito

Word origin

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.