Word

explicit

adjective C1

/ɪkˈsplɪs.ɪt/

Meanings

adjective

stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for misunderstanding

adjective

describing sex or violence openly and in a way that may be considered offensive or unsuitable

Definition

Clear and direct, leaving no room for doubt about meaning or intention.

If something is explicit, it is stated or shown in a very clear and direct way. It gives specific details so people do not need to guess what is meant. The word is often used for instructions, descriptions, rules, or content that is very openly described.

Examples

The professor was explicit about what counted as plagiarism and how to cite sources correctly.
I need explicit instructions before I change the server settings, because a vague guideline could cause problems.
She gave an explicit description of the experiment so the lab could replicate it precisely.
They rejected the draft because the requirements were not explicit enough for the contractors to price the work.
You should check the content rating if you want to avoid explicit scenes in the series.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse explicit with implicit and use explicit when they mean something is only suggested rather than clearly stated.