Synonyms of explicit

explicit

adjective

ik-ˈspli-sət 

as in specific

so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning

explicit instructions about what to do in an emergency

Synonyms & Similar Words

• specific
• express
• definite
• definitive
• unambiguous
• unmistakable
• unequivocal
• comprehensive
• literal
• complete
• clear-cut
• clear
• full
• simple
• comprehensible
• univocal
• precise
• specified
• categorical
• stated
• exhaustive
• avowed
• distinct
• direct
• understandable
• certain
• categoric
• lucid
• intelligible
• declared
• exact
• straightforward
• sure
• plain
• well-defined

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implicit
• implied
• inferred
• dark
• unclear
• ambiguous
• obscure
• cryptic
• enigmatic
• incorrect
• inaccurate
• vague
• circuitous
• imprecise
• inexact
• enigmatical
• indefinite
• equivocal
• incomprehensible
• unintelligible
• inexplicit
• unspecific

Synonym Chooser

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of explicit

While many organizations have created AI guidelines or invested in AI capabilities, making AI proficiency an explicit job requirement across all roles signals a fundamental belief that AI competency has become as essential as email or basic computer skills once were. —Josipa Majic Predin, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025

Platform engineering flips the script on this by creating internal platforms engineered to provide explicit abstraction for hard infrastructure management work, simplifying workflows and boosting the productivity of developers. —Sai Sandeep Ogety, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025

Sometimes, this capturing of subjectivity is even explicit, such as when the CIA constructs chatbots to stand in for world leaders and interrogates them. —Big Think, 8 Apr. 2025

The need to feel recognized, connected, and secure transcends political affiliation—creating an opportunity for brands to reach across divides while carrying significantly less risk than explicit political positioning. —Gillian Oakenfull, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025