EXPLICIT Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'explicit' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of explicit are definite , express , and specific . While all these words mean "perfectly clear in meaning," explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding. // explicit instructions

Q: When could 'definite' be used to replace 'explicit'?

While in some cases nearly identical to explicit , definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision. // the law is definite in such cases

Q: When would 'express' be a good substitute for 'explicit'?

The meanings of express and explicit largely overlap; however, express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance. // her express wishes

Q: When might 'specific' be a better fit than 'explicit'?

The words specific and explicit are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular. // two specific criticisms

explicit

adjective

ik-ˈspli-sət

Definition of explicit next

as in specific

so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning explicit instructions about what to do in an emergency

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How is the word explicit distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of explicit are definite, express, and specific. While all these words mean "perfectly clear in meaning," explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding.

explicit instructions

When could definite be used to replace explicit?

While in some cases nearly identical to explicit, definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision.

the law is definite in such cases

When would express be a good substitute for explicit?

The meanings of express and explicit largely overlap; however, express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance.

her express wishes

When might specific be a better fit than explicit?

The words specific and explicit are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular.

two specific criticisms

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of explicit The 2020 study focused on the decisions to make risky self-disclosures online, but other examples include making explicit comments, sharing inappropriate pictures, or revealing overly sensitive information. —

Eric Wood, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024 Members of these virtual groups share and produce explicit content with vulnerable, underage users — primarily females — around the world, according to the DOJ. —

Olivia Rose, The Arizona Republic, 13 Dec. 2024 Trump’s explicit threats against the Bidens, and his record of trying to politicize the Justice Department and FBI, almost justify an unpardonable pardon, columnist Jackie Calmes writes. —

Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 6 Dec. 2024 The resultant climax is actually real here — there’s no condensed milk substitute in sight — but Mitchell’s explicit moment of self-love isn’t just included for shock value. —

David Opie, IndieWire, 7 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for explicit

Recent Examples of Synonyms for explicit

Adjective

Here’s how leaders can close the feedback loop and create a path for growth: Set Feedback Goals for the New Year: Identify one or two specific areas to improve based on feedback.

Scott Hutcheson, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024
George Balanchine was a choreographer with a specific style of ballet that became the Balanchine technique.

April Wallace, arkansasonline.com, 22 Dec. 2024