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

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Recent Examples of explicit But Reagan's landslide victory 40 years ago came with it an explicit governing mandate. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2024 Trump’s running mate J.D. Vance has been explicit in his opposition to further aid for Kyiv, arguing that the U.S. should encourage the country to strike a peace deal with Russia and that Ukraine should be prepared to cede land to Moscow. —

Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 6 Nov. 2024 But three days before the election, the former President returned to a state he’s won twice to make an explicit race-baiting appeal to the other gender. —

Eric Cortellessa / Gastonia, TIME, 3 Nov. 2024 Wiley has long been explicit about the erotic aspects of his work and the often fine line that separates admiration and exploitation. —

Rachel Corbett, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for explicit

Recent Examples of Synonyms for explicit

Adjective

The provision for credit losses rose to $1.7 million, up from $100 thousand in the same period the previous year, primarily due to increases in specific reserves and projected unemployment rates.

Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024
This mount holds the physical controls and connectors specific to each earcup, including a power button and USB-C port on the left and a four-way mini-joystick on the right.

PCMAG, PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024