Synonyms of explicit

explicit

adjective

ik-ˈspli-sət 

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

• specific
• express
• definite
• definitive
• unambiguous
• unmistakable
• unequivocal
• comprehensive
• literal
• complete
• clear-cut
• clear
• full
• simple
• univocal
• comprehensible
• precise
• specified
• categorical
• stated
• avowed
• exhaustive
• distinct
• direct
• understandable
• certain
• lucid
• intelligible
• declared
• exact
• straightforward
• sure
• plain
• well-defined

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implicit
• implied
• inferred
• dark
• unclear
• ambiguous
• obscure
• cryptic
• enigmatic
• incorrect
• inaccurate
• vague
• circuitous
• imprecise
• inexact
• indefinite
• equivocal
• incomprehensible
• unintelligible
• inexplicit
• unspecific

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

Recent Examples of explicit

When these deals were first inked, an explicit goal for these companies was to reach parents who didn’t allow their kids to watch YouTube. — Emily Palmer Heller, Vulture, 21 Oct. 2026

Only an explicit, committed fight for educational justice can do that. — Kamau Bobb october 21, Literary Hub, 21 Oct. 2026

Freedom said his effort to join the league is intended to push it to adopt an explicit requirement limiting participation to biological females. — Jackson Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 Oct. 2026

The effort responds to years of training from those models on screenplays without explicit permission, which has sparked questions over the legality of using those scripts without permission. — Corbin Bolies, Variety, 20 Oct. 2026