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
• comprehensible
• univocal
• precise
• specified
• categorical
• stated
• exhaustive
• avowed
• distinct
• direct
• understandable
• certain
• categoric
• 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
• enigmatical
• 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

In Smith's case, an image of her was doctored to create explicit pictures and videos, with her face edited onto different, partly nude bodies, and then used to try to extort money from others. —Nicole Valdes, CBS News, 1 May 2025

Gomez, a police officer, educates families about digital safety and is especially concerned by the exchange of explicit images. —Adaira Landry, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025

The inflammatory statements made by Kash Patel and Pam Bondi are not only completely inappropriate for the nation's top law enforcement officials to make but appear to violate explicit standards set forward by the DOJ. —Sonam Sheth, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025

Norris steps out of the aisle and appears to direct two other men in, though no explicit order could be heard. —Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025