Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt: "explicit" describes information, instructions, or statements that are expressed in a direct, unambiguous, and fully revealed manner.
   • Graphically detailed, especially in depicting sexual or violent content: In media, "explicit" refers to material that shows or describes something, often sex or violence, in a very direct and detailed way, without concealment.

Usage

• Use "explicit" to describe communication that is clear, direct, and leaves nothing implied or hidden.
• Use "explicit" as a content warning label (e.g., "explicit lyrics," "explicit content") to indicate material contains direct, often adult, descriptions or depictions.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The user manual gave explicit instructions on how to assemble the furniture.
  • He was explicit about his reasons for resigning during the meeting.
  • The film has an explicit sex scene and is rated for adults only.
  • The contract needs to be explicit regarding payment terms to avoid future disputes.

Advanced Usage

• "to be explicit about something": to state something clearly and directly, often to ensure understanding or to avoid ambiguity.
  • The manager was explicit about the new policy's zero-tolerance stance.
• In mathematics and logic, "explicit" describes a formula or definition where a variable is expressed directly in terms of others, not left implied.
  • An explicit function, like y = 2x + 3, defines the output directly.

Variants and Related Words

• Explicitly (adverb): in a clear and detailed manner, leaving no room for confusion.
  • The rules explicitly forbid the use of mobile phones.
• Explicitness (noun): the quality of being explicit.
  • The explicitness of the warning left no doubt about the danger.

Synonyms

• Clear: easy to perceive, understand, or interpret.
• Direct: straightforward and frank.
• Unambiguous: not open to more than one interpretation.
• Graphic: giving a vivid picture with clear and often shocking details.

Antonyms

• Implicit: implied though not plainly expressed.
• Vague: of uncertain, indefinite, or unclear character or meaning.
• Ambiguous: open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.

Related Phrases

• Explicit consent: permission that is clearly and unmistakably stated, not assumed.
  • The app requires explicit consent before accessing your personal data.
• Explicit knowledge: knowledge that can be readily articulated, codified, and transmitted.
  • The training manual is designed to transfer explicit knowledge to new employees.

Adjective

1. in accordance with fact or the primary meaning of a term
2. precisely and clearly expressed or readily observable; leaving nothing to implication
   • explicit instructions
   • she made her wishes explicit
   • explicit sexual scenes