Definition and Pronunciation
Explicit (pronounced: /ɪkˈsplɪsɪt/) is an adjective that means something is stated clearly and directly, leaving no room for doubt or hidden meaning. In everyday use, it can describe clear instructions or detailed explanations. In sexual or media contexts, it refers to content that is graphic, openly sexual, or not suitable for children.
Easy Explanation
If something is “explicit,” it’s clear, direct, and not hidden. It can mean very clear instructions (explicit directions) or very graphic sexual or violent content (explicit movies).
Grammatical Formation
- Adjective: explicit
- Adverb: explicitly
- Noun: explicitness
Word Comparisons
- Explicit vs. implicit: explicit = clear and direct; implicit = implied or suggested.
- Explicit vs. graphic: graphic often describes violent or sexual details; explicit means openly detailed, not always shocking.
- Explicit vs. obscene: obscene is offensive or immoral; explicit is descriptive and clear, not always negative.
Connotations
- Positive: clarity, precision, honesty.
- Negative: offensive, indecent, shocking.
- Neutral: straightforward, detailed.
Meaning with Prepositions
- Explicit about: She was explicit about her expectations.
- Explicit in: The book was explicit in its descriptions.
- Explicit for: The movie was too explicit for young viewers.
Real-Life Examples
- The teacher gave explicit instructions for the exam.
- He was explicit about not wanting to continue the relationship.
- The novel contained explicit sexual scenes.
- The law is explicit in its wording.
Synonyms
clear, direct, detailed, graphic, precise, specific, open, blunt, straightforward
Antonyms
vague, implicit, unclear, hidden, subtle, ambiguous
Related Terms
- Explicit content – open sexual or violent material.
- Explicit lyrics – music with sexual or offensive language.
- Explicit instructions – very clear guidelines.
- Sexually explicit – openly showing or describing sex.
Common Collocations
- explicit content
- explicit lyrics
- explicit instructions
- explicit warning
- sexually explicit material
Idiomatic and Figurative Usage
- Make it explicit: to clarify or spell out.
- Explicit detail: complete, full description.
- Parental advisory: explicit content: common warning label for media.
Sample Sentences
- The guide gave explicit steps for the process.
- The video contained explicit images not suitable for minors.
- She was explicit in saying she disagreed with the plan.
- Explicit warnings were printed on the cigarette package.
Connection to Sexuality
Yes, “explicit” is strongly linked to sexuality when used in cultural or media contexts. “Sexually explicit” means something shows or describes sexual activity clearly, often in pornography, erotic writing, or adult films.
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