What does "explicit" mean?

1. (clear and direct) stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt. 2. (graphic or offensive) showing or describing something, like violence or sex, in a very open and direct way.

How do you use "explicit"?

Often used with nouns like 'instructions', 'orders', 'details', or 'permission'.

explicit

adj.

US //ɪksˈpɫɪsət// UK //ɛksplˈɪsɪt// ex·plic·it

1 clear and direct (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt.

fully and clearly expressed or demonstrated; leaving nothing merely implied.

Example

The teacher gave explicit instructions on how to write the essay.

Example

The contract contains explicit terms regarding the termination of services, ensuring that both parties understand their legal obligations from the outset.

Usage

Often used with nouns like 'instructions', 'orders', 'details', or 'permission'.
2 graphic or offensive (adj.)
C1 Advanced Formal

showing or describing something, like violence or sex, in a very open and direct way.

describing or showing graphic imagery or language, often in a way that may be considered offensive or inappropriate for children.

Example

The movie was rated R because it contained explicit violence.

Example

Broadcasters are required to provide warnings before airing programs that contain explicit language or scenes of a disturbing nature.

Teacher's tip

In modern media, this is the standard term used for 'Parental Advisory' labels on music and films.
- censored
- mild

Etymology 1

Borrowed from French explicite, from Latin explicitus (“disentangled, easy”), variant of explicātus.

Etymology 2

Abbreviated from Latin explicitus est liber (“the book is set in order, ended”).

Word family

Adjectiveexplicit
Adverbexplicitly