Tacitly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tacitly

[หˆtรฆsษชtli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

without speaking

Understood or implied without being stated openly, usually referring to an agreement or consent. It is often used to describe how something is done or expressed without words.

Synonyms

implicitly, implicitly, implied, silently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tacitly

This is a duplication and the context and examples are the same as the first entry for 'tacitly'.

  • He tacitly approved of the plan by not voicing any objections.
  • They tacitly agreed to keep the information confidential.
implicitly

Use this word when something is suggested or understood without being directly stated. It often involves an assumption or recognition without clear expression.

  • She implicitly trusted him with her personal information.
  • The contract implicitly includes a nondisclosure agreement.
silently

Use this word when an action or reaction is done without speaking or making noise. It often involves physical silence rather than an unspoken understanding.

  • She silently left the room to avoid further confrontation.
  • They waited silently for the announcement.
implied

This word is appropriate when referring to something that is hinted at or suggested without being explicitly stated. It is often used in legal or formal contexts.

  • The report implied that there were serious issues within the company.
  • Her tone implied that she was not happy with the decision.

Examples of usage

  • She tacitly agreed to the plan by not objecting.
  • The company tacitly admitted its mistake by offering a refund.
  • The professor tacitly approved the student's project by giving a high grade.
Context #2 | Adverb

implied consent

Indicating something without explicitly stating it, typically referring to an understanding or acceptance without verbal confirmation.

Synonyms

implicitly, implied, silently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tacitly

Used when something is understood or agreed upon without being spoken or directly expressed.

  • She tacitly approved his plan by not objecting.
  • They tacitly acknowledged the risk by proceeding.
implicitly

Suitable for situations where something is suggested or understood without being directly stated, often implying complete and unquestioning acceptance.

  • She trusted him implicitly.
  • The rule was implicitly understood.
silently

Used to describe actions done without sound or speaking, often indicating an unspoken response or approval.

  • She nodded silently in agreement.
  • He walked silently across the room.
implied

Best used when referring to something suggested indirectly through words or actions, rather than being explicitly stated.

  • The advertisement implied that the product was eco-friendly.
  • His tone of voice implied that he was upset.

Examples of usage

  • Her silence was taken as tacitly agreeing to the terms.
  • Their continued collaboration tacitly acknowledged their mutual respect.
  • The lack of objections tacitly endorsed the decision.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Non-verbal cues often lead to tacit understandingsโ€”like a nod or a smile that can indicate agreement.
  • Studies in social psychology suggest that people often rely on implicit communication more than explicit dialogues in group settings.
  • This form of agreement can strengthen group cohesion, as members feel aligned without needing constant verbal affirmations.

Literature

  • Writers often utilize tacit agreements between characters to build tension or foster intrigue, allowing readers to infer meanings.
  • In classic literature, unsaid emotions and thoughts can create profound connections between characters, emphasizing the power of 'what's not said'.
  • The concept can also encompass themes of silence and acceptance, often seen in works exploring human relationships.

Communication

  • In workplaces, tacit understanding can help streamline tasks as team members implicitly know their roles without explicit instructions.
  • Cultural differences can affect how tacit communication is interpreted, making it vital to understand context in global interactions.
  • Non-verbal communication, such as body language or facial expressions, often conveys tacit agreements efficiently.

Pop Culture

  • In many films and TV shows, characters often share tacit agreements that drive the plot, like a shared glance that implies understanding.
  • Popular music often features lyrics suggesting tacit feelings or agreements, capturing the complexity of love and relationships.
  • Social media trends sometimes revolve around tacit agreements, like following or liking posts without direct interactions.

Origin of 'tacitly'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'tacitus', which means 'silent' or 'quiet'.
  • First appeared in English around the late 18th century as part of legal discourse.
  • The term emphasizes unspoken consent or understanding, making it a favorite in formal contexts.

The word 'tacitly' originates from the Latin word 'tacitus,' meaning 'silent' or 'unspoken.' It first appeared in English in the 17th century. The concept of tacit agreement or consent has been recognized in various cultures throughout history, emphasizing the power of unspoken communication.


See also: taciturn.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,962, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.