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 January 2024, officials searched Strauss’ home and found a cell phone with an explicit photo and recordings of the teen, prosecutors said. —Sara Schilling, Miami Herald, 5 Aug. 2025

According to published rules for Energizer Park, political banners are prohibited, though no explicit mention is made of political clothing or accessories such as hats. —Isabel Van Brugen, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Aug. 2025

In one example, the plaintiffs claim that a 13-year-old boy was tricked into sharing explicit images of himself via Snapchat, which were then shared on X. These images were later reported by the boy and his mother, who supplied ID and complied with X’s reporting processes. —Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 3 Aug. 2025

The Russian filmmaker is known for visually lush, narrator-less docs that exist in a political context without feeling the need to mount an explicit case. —Alison Willmore, Vulture, 1 Aug. 2025