Tacitly: meaning, definitions and examples

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tacitly

 

[ ˈtæsɪtli ]

Adverb
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

Translations of the word "tacitly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tacitamente

🇮🇳 मौन रूप से

🇩🇪 stillschweigend

🇮🇩 diam-diam

🇺🇦 мовчки

🇵🇱 milcząco

🇯🇵 黙って

🇫🇷 tacitement

🇪🇸 tácitamente

🇹🇷 örtülü olarak

🇰🇷 조용히

🇸🇦 بصمت

🇨🇿 mlčky

🇸🇰 mlčky

🇨🇳 默默地

🇸🇮 tiho

🇮🇸 þegjandi

🇰🇿 үндемей

🇬🇪 ჩუმად

🇦🇿 səssizcə

🇲🇽 tácitamente

Etymology

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.