WordGarden.ioexplicit
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛksplˈɪsɪt/
US
- /ɪksˈplɪsət/
Meanings
Adjective
stated clearly and directly, leaving little room for doubt
showing or describing sex or nudity directly
specified directly in a formal system rather than inferred
Beyond the definition
When something is explicit, it is stated very clearly and leaves no room for doubt or confusion. Think of instructions: if they are explicit, you know exactly what to do. The term can also describe content that is shown or said very directly, often relating to sex, violence, or strong language. For instance, you might say a movie has "explicit scenes," meaning those moments are presented in a very open and detailed way.
The word comes from the Latin explicitus, meaning "unfolded" or "explained." Imagine something being fully unfolded so that all the details can be seen. Whether it is a lawyer giving explicit instructions to a client, a teacher providing explicit examples, or a warning label giving explicit details about danger, they all share this quality of being completely clear and easy to understand.
The word "explicit" describes something that is fully revealed, clearly stated, or described in detail, leaving nothing implied or open to interpretation. It is centered on directness and precision in communication. For example, "The contract contained explicit clauses regarding payment terms" means the details were laid out very clearly, so all parties understood their obligations.
"Explicit" also refers to content that is graphically clear, particularly when dealing with mature themes like violence or sexuality. In this context, it often carries a formal warning, such as: "This movie contains explicit language and scenes." This usage highlights a total lack of subtlety or euphemism.
The root of "explicit" lies in the Latin word explicitus, which means "unfolded." Think of unfolding a map; once it is spread out, every detail and landmark is revealed. Similarly, an explicit explanation leaves no questions unanswered because every part of the message has been "unfolded" for the listener.
In professional settings, you might encounter the term "explicit consent," which refers to a clear and unambiguous agreement, a concept that is important in legal, medical, and ethical contexts. You could also describe an action as "explicitly forbidden," meaning the prohibition was communicated so clearly that no one could reasonably claim ignorance. Ultimately, whether it is a set of instructions, a legal document, or a film, if something is explicit, it is direct, detailed, and laid out in plain sight.
Examples
- 1
Instructions
The teacher gave us explicit instructions before the experiment.
- 2
Rules
The rules are explicit about what counts as cheating.
- Patternexplicit about + topic
clearly stating something
- 3
Email
She was explicit in her email that the meeting was optional.
- Patternexplicit in + message/source
clear and direct in what you say or write
- 4
Permission
Parents must give explicit permission before the school can post a child's photo online.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Movie rating
The movie was rated for explicit language.
- Phraseexplicit language
very direct sexual or offensive words
- 6
Accusations
He criticized the decision, but he avoided making any explicit accusations.
- 7
Clarification
To be explicit, the offer ends on June 30.
- PhraseTo be explicit
to say something in a very clear, direct way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- explicit instructions
- explicit consent
- make something explicit
- explicit statement
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- explicitadjective