Implicitly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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implicitly

[ɪmˈplɪsɪtli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in communication

In a way that is not directly or expressly stated; in a way that is suggested or implied.

Synonyms

implied, indirectly, tacitly.

Examples of usage

  • She implicitly agreed to the terms of the contract by signing it.
  • His silence implicitly indicated his disapproval of the plan.
Context #2 | Adverb

in behavior

In a way that is not openly acknowledged but can be inferred from someone's actions.

Synonyms

unacknowledged, unspoken.

Examples of usage

  • He implicitly admitted his mistake by apologizing.
  • She implicitly trusted him to handle the situation.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Implicit understanding plays a crucial role in social interactions, as we often rely on unspoken cues and body language.
  • In cognitive psychology, implicit memories are those that affect thoughts and actions without conscious awareness.
  • Research shows that humor often relies on implicit meanings, where jokes depend on shared knowledge or context.

Communication

  • Reading between the lines is a key aspect of effective communication, as much of what we express is not stated outright.
  • Implicit biases affect our perceptions and decisions, often operating below our conscious awareness.
  • Many literary techniques, such as symbolism and metaphor, rely on implicit meanings to convey deeper messages.

Education

  • Implicit learning occurs when knowledge is acquired without awareness, such as language acquisition in children.
  • In education, teaching strategies can include implicit methods, where students learn concepts through experiences rather than direct instruction.
  • Assessments often evaluate students' implicit understanding of topics through tasks requiring application rather than rote knowledge.

Culture

  • Cultural norms are often taught implicitly; individuals learn expected behaviors without formal instructions.
  • Implicit themes in art can provoke thought and reflection, inviting viewers to interpret meanings beyond the surface.
  • Music can convey emotions implicitly, where melody and harmony express feelings without lyrics needing to explain them.

Origin of 'implicitly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'implicare', meaning 'to fold in or involve', showing how the meaning unfolds under the surface.
  • In English, it began to be used in the 16th century, reflecting the idea of meanings that aren't straightforward.
  • Related terms include 'explicit', which means clearly stated, contrasting with the idea of something being implied or hidden.

The word 'implicitly' originated from the Latin word 'implicitus', meaning 'entwined' or 'involved'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in English to describe something that is suggested or understood without being directly expressed. The adverb 'implicitly' gained popularity in the English language in the 17th century and has since been commonly used in various contexts.


See also: implicit.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,987 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.