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

Trump was explicit in calling the operation a war. —Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 1 Mar. 2026

Some commentators interpreted Altman’s remark as a veiled criticism of Anthropic, which had not agreed to these terms previously and instead insisted on explicit contractual restrictions on how its models could be used. —Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 28 Feb. 2026

On Monday, the Express-News was first to report that Gonzales, who is married with six children, texted Santos-Aviles asking for an explicit photo. —Bayliss Wagner, San Antonio Express-News, 28 Feb. 2026

The 1962 Kefauver–Harris Amendments, which required drugmakers to prove their products were both safe and effective to receive FDA approval, also gave the FDA explicit authority over prescription drug advertising. —Anna Chorniy, The Conversation, 27 Feb. 2026