explicit

adjective

ik-ˈspli-sət How to pronounce explicit (audio)
Definition of explicitnext
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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 Ugarte has been explicit in his anti-Trump sentiment, specifically over the summer’s immigration raids. —Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2026 Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network, for its part, was explicit about the stakes. —Asra Q. Nomani, FOXNews.com, 7 Feb. 2026 This new announcement represents an urgent and more explicit delivery of that promise. —Jack Dunn, Variety, 5 Feb. 2026 Early in the film, Colin leaves his family on Christmas night to go meet Ray for the first time, and the two have a rather explicit encounter in an alley. —Leigh Nordstrom, Footwear News, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for explicit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explicit
  1. specific
  2. express
  3. definite
  4. definitive
  5. unambiguous
  6. unmistakable
  7. unequivocal
  8. comprehensive
Adjective
  • By adjusting for variables such as smoking, physical activity and underlying health conditions, the researchers were able to isolate the specific relationship between caffeine intake and long-term brain health, SWNS noted.
    — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 10 Feb. 2026
  • James Reilly, senior markets economist at Capital Economics, said in a note that while the broader stock market continues to climb higher, exposure to AI will be a specific boost or drag for certain companies.
    — John Towfighi, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
Definition of specific
Adjective
  • The speed limit in both the express and toll-free lanes will be 65 miles per hour.
    — Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 3 Feb. 2026
  • The Forte Vita Bar offers express treatments, including facials and blow outs designed for the city’s busy pace.
    — Laura Itzkowitz, AFAR Media, 30 Jan. 2026
Definition of express
Adjective
  • Currently, Scream 7 is great with the 17-34 bunch and multicultural audiences across definite interest and first choice.
    — Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 5 Feb. 2026
  • There's a definite need to take a look at systemic safety on our roadways.
    — Kayla Moeller, CBS News, 30 Jan. 2026
Definition of definite
Adjective
  • This is the 18th century, after all — DNA and 23andMe are still two centuries off, so definitive proof of the seemingly impossible lineage will take time and effort to piece together.
    — Amy Wilkinson, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Feb. 2026
  • The candy analysis has not been peer-reviewed, and in a press release, the FDOH indicated that the study findings aren’t definitive.
    — Owen Clarke, Outside, 9 Feb. 2026
Definition of definitive
Adjective
  • History is unambiguous on this point.
    — Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 30 Jan. 2026
  • John Leguizamo has a brief but unambiguous message for his fans who support Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
    — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Jan. 2026
Definition of unambiguous
Adjective
  • The Telltale Signs of Rotary Motion The re-examination revealed unmistakable evidence that this was no simple awl meant for poking holes.
    — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Those distinctive features give the species a look that is at once gentle and unmistakable — a face that, for the wildlife community, has become a symbol of how close a species can come to vanishing entirely and still find a path back.
    — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 13 Feb. 2026
Definition of unmistakable
Adjective
  • There was at least one part of the issue that Askell was unequivocal about.
    — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 29 Jan. 2026
  • After racking up a 127-82 record, four regular-season or conference-tournament titles, five postseason berths and two trips to the NCAA Division II tournament, Bonner’s answer is an unequivocal yes.
    — Brian Robin, Oc Register, 28 Jan. 2026
Definition of unequivocal
Adjective
  • The city plans to roll out a comprehensive outreach campaign so residents are aware of the registration process and can learn more about converting their properties into pollinator gardens.
    — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Desmond Lamb is the executive director of Friends of Yates, a comprehensive community agency in Wyandotte County that operates a domestic violence shelter.
    — Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 10 Feb. 2026
Definition of comprehensive

Browse Nearby Words

explicatory
explicit
explicitness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Explicit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explicit. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on explicit

Nglish: Translation of explicit for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about explicit

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