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 Research on interpersonal warmth—which, alongside competence, accounts for roughly 82% of how people evaluate others—supports the importance of explicit positive communication. Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025 And, like the film, explicit language is plentiful. Ross Raihala, Twin Cities, 17 Oct. 2025 This represents a more explicit approach than the February policy change, which allowed erotica in certain contexts but lacked age-gating infrastructure. ArsTechnica, 15 Oct. 2025 While a reference to Democrats alone likely doesn't constitute a violation of the law, the explicit blaming of their party for the shutdown may, said Michael Fallings, a partner at Tully Rinckey, an employment law firm. NPR, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for explicit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explicit
Adjective
  • Welcome to the ninth edition of The Alternative Premier League Table, where each Thursday, Anantaajith Raghuraman analyses the entire division through a specific lens.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Differences in specific genes may cause a person to metabolize caffeine quickly or slowly.
    Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The stores also must obtain the consumer’s express informed consent prior to enrolling any consumer in the VIP Membership Program and provide simple online ways for consumers to cancel their membership.
    Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Bus ridership, meanwhile, increased by thousands of riders on express routes.
    Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Ares a very high 71%+ definite recommend, the 18-24 set gave it the lowest of any demographic at 44%.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 20 Oct. 2025
  • His father, who was a traveling salesman and former amateur goalkeeper, carried definite expectations, Klopp added.
    Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 20 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • There is no deadline or definitive timetable set for completion of the strategic alternatives review process.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Appearing Wednesday evening on NewsNation, Homan was more definitive.
    Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • But the signals aren’t completely unambiguous.
    Nola Taylor Tillman, Scientific American, 13 Oct. 2025
  • That unambiguous take makes Norway and its football association unique.
    Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The production, the rhythm, the message and Langley’s unmistakable voice meld mightily to make this an irresistible track and further cement Langley as one of the genre’s brightest newcomers.
    Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 20 Oct. 2025
  • Analyzing over 20 million AI shopping agent conversations revealed an unmistakable pattern.
    Fayez Mohamood, Fortune, 20 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The condemnation from Kansas Republican officials was swift and unequivocal.
    Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2025
  • When asked a few minutes later whether that means YouTube is in a strong position to carry exclusive NFL games going forward, Goodell was unequivocal.
    Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The result is high-quality health care that is accessible, comprehensive, and most of all, personalized.
    Conviva Senior Primary Care, Miami Herald, 20 Oct. 2025
  • This list is in no particular order and is in no way comprehensive.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 20 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Explicit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explicit. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on explicit

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