Definitions for: Explicit


[adj] precisely and clearly expressed or readily observable; leaving nothing to implication; "explicit instructions"; "she made her wishes explicit"; "explicit sexual scenes"
[adj] in accordance with fact or the primary meaning of a term



Webster (1913) Definition: Ex"pli*cit [LL., an abbreviation of explicitus (est
liber) the book (which anciently was a roll of parchment) is
unfolded (and, of course, ``finished''). See Explicit, a.]
A word formerly used (as finis is now) at the conclusion of a
book to indicate the end.


Ex*plic"it, a. [L. explicitus; p. p. of explicare to
unfold: cf. F. explicite. See Explicate, Exploit.]
1. Not implied merely, or conveyed by implication; distinctly
stated; plain in language; open to the understanding;
clear; not obscure or ambiguous; express; unequivocal; as,
an explicit declaration.

The language of the charter was too explicit to
admit of a doubt. --Bancroft.

2. Having no disguised meaning or reservation; unreserved;
outspoken; -- applied to persons; as, he was earnest and
explicit in his statement.

Explicit function. (Math.) See under Function.

Syn: Express; clear; plain; open; unreserved; unambiguous.

Usage: Explicit, Express. Explicit denotes a setting
forth in the plainest language, so that the meaning
can not be misunderstood; as, an explicit promise.
Express is stronger than explicit: it adds force to
clearness. An express promise or engagement is not
only unambiguous, but stands out in bold relief, with
the most binding hold on the conscience. An explicit
statement; a clear and explicit notion; explicit
direction; no words can be more explicit. An explicit
command; an express prohibition. ``An express
declaration goes forcibly and directly to the point.
An explicit declaration leaves nothing ambiguous.''
--C. J. Smith.

Synonyms: declared, definitive, express, expressed, graphic, hardcore, hard-core, literal, stated, unequivocal

Antonyms: implicit, inexplicit

See Also: definite, denotative, denotive, open, overt, unambiguous, univocal

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