Word: explicit (adjective)

Associations

The word "explicit" means something that is clear, direct, and leaves no room for doubt or confusion. When something is explicit, it is stated fully and clearly, often with details.

• Example 1: "The instructions were explicit, so everyone knew exactly what to do." Here, it means the instructions were very clear.
• Example 2: "He gave explicit permission to use his photo." This means permission was clearly and directly given.
• Example 3: "The movie contains explicit scenes." This means the scenes are shown clearly and openly, often referring to strong or adult content.

Synonym: "clear" is a common synonym. The difference is that "explicit" often means fully and clearly expressed in detail, while "clear" can be more general and sometimes less detailed.

Substitution

You can use words like:

• clear (less formal, more general)
• specific (focuses on detail)
• direct (focuses on straightforwardness)

Changing "explicit" to "clear" might make the meaning softer, while "specific" adds focus on details.

Deconstruction

• Root: from Latin "explicitus," meaning "unfolded" or "clearly expressed."
• Prefix: none
• Suffix: "-it" is part of the root here, no separate suffix.

Understanding "explicit" comes from the idea of something being "unfolded" or fully shown, which helps explain why it means clear and detailed.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when someone gave you explicit instructions? How did that help you?
• How is being explicit different from being vague or unclear?
• Why might it be important to be explicit in writing or speaking?