Implicit vs. Explicit — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 12, 2023
Implicit means suggested but not directly expressed; Explicit means clearly stated or shown.
Difference Between Implicit and Explicit
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Implicit refers to something that is implied or understood without being directly stated. In contrast, Explicit pertains to something that is stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion.
An implicit understanding might exist between two people based on their shared experiences, while explicit instructions are given without ambiguity, clearly defining expectations. Implicit knowledge or beliefs operate in the background, influencing our behaviors without direct awareness. On the other hand, explicit knowledge is consciously recognized and can be articulated. When comparing communication, implicit messages require interpretation, while explicit messages are straightforward and unambiguous.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Suggested but not directly expressed.
Clearly stated or shown.
Part of Speech
Adjective
Adjective
Example Usage
"There was an implicit agreement between them."
"She gave explicit instructions to the team."
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Associated Context
Unspoken understandings, innuendos
Direct statements, clear instructions
Synonyms
Implied, insinuated
Clear, direct, unambiguous
Compare with Definitions
Implicit
Inherent in the nature of something.
Trust is implicit in that relationship.
Explicit
Directly expressed without vagueness.
The poem's explicit imagery startled the readers.
Implicit
Operating without one's awareness.
Implicit biases influence our decisions.
Explicit
Leaving no room for confusion.
The law was explicit in its wording.
Implicit
Capable of being understood from context.
His actions carried an implicit message.
Explicit
Stated clearly and in detail.
She was explicit about her plans.
Implicit
Without doubts or reservations.
She had implicit faith in her mentor.
Explicit
Openly shown without hiding details.
The documentary provided explicit footage.
Implicit
Implied though not plainly expressed.
Their silence gave me an implicit consent.
Explicit
Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt
The arrangement had not been made explicit
Implicit
Suggested though not directly expressed
Comments seen as implicit criticism of the policies
Explicit
The closing words of a manuscript, early printed book, or chanted liturgical text.
Implicit
Always to be found in; essentially connected with
The values implicit in the school ethos
Explicit
Fully and clearly expressed; leaving nothing implied
Explicit approval.
Implicit
With no qualification or question; absolute
An implicit faith in God
Explicit
Fully developed or formulated
Has an explicit idea of what to say in the paper.
Implicit
(of a function) not expressed directly in terms of independent variables.
Explicit
Forthright and unreserved in expression
They were explicit in their criticism.
Implicit
Implied or understood though not directly expressed
An implicit agreement not to raise the touchy subject.
Explicit
Readily observable
An explicit sign of trouble.
Implicit
Contained in the nature of something though not readily apparent
"Frustration is implicit in any attempt to express the deepest self" (Patricia Hampl).
Explicit
Describing or portraying nudity or sexual activity in graphic detail.
Implicit
Having no doubts or reservations; unquestioning
Implicit trust.
Explicit
Very specific, clear, or detailed.
I gave explicit instructions for him to stay here, but he followed me, anyway.
Implicit
Implied indirectly, without being directly expressed
Explicit
(euphemism) Containing material (e.g. language or film footage) that might be deemed offensive or graphic.
The film had several scenes including explicit language and sex.
Implicit
Contained in the essential nature of something but not openly shown
Explicit
A word formerly used (as finis is now) at the conclusion of a book to indicate the end.
Implicit
Having no reservations or doubts; unquestioning or unconditional; usually said of faith or trust.
Explicit
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. Opposite of implicit.
The language of the charter was too explicit to admit of a doubt.
Implicit
(obsolete) entangled, twisted together.
Explicit
Having no disguised meaning or reservation; unreserved; outspoken; - applied to persons; as, he was earnest and explicit in his statement.
Implicit
Infolded; entangled; complicated; involved.
In his woolly fleeceI cling implicit.
Explicit
Precisely and clearly expressed or readily observable; leaving nothing to implication;
Explicit instructions
She made her wishes explicit
Explicit sexual scenes
Implicit
Tacitly comprised; fairly to be understood, though not expressed in words; implied; as, an implicit contract or agreement.
Explicit
In accordance with fact or the primary meaning of a term
Implicit
Resting on another; trusting in the word or authority of another, without doubt or reserve; unquestioning; complete; as, implicit confidence; implicit obedience.
Back again to implicit faith I fall.
Explicit
Precisely and clearly expressed.
She was explicit in her refusal.
Implicit
Implied though not directly expressed; inherent in the nature of something;
An implicit agreement not to raise the subject
There was implicit criticism in his voice
Anger was implicit in the argument
The oak is implicit in the acorn
Implicit
Being without doubt or reserve;
Implicit trust
Common Curiosities
What does Implicit primarily refer to?
Implicit refers to something suggested but not directly expressed.
Can Explicit information be misunderstood?
While it's clear and direct, any information can be misunderstood due to various factors.
Is Implicit always related to communication?
No, it can also relate to inherent qualities or beliefs operating without direct awareness.
Does Implicit always mean secretive?
No, it's more about subtlety and implication rather than secrecy.
What's the opposite of Explicit?
Implicit or vague can be considered opposites.
How does Explicit contrast with Implicit?
Explicit means clearly stated or shown, without ambiguity.
Is Implicit information always hidden?
Not necessarily hidden, but it often requires interpretation or inference.
Can Explicit be used in mathematics?
Yes, as in "explicit formula" where a direct relationship is given.
Can a message be both implicit and explicit?
Yes, a message can have clear parts and parts that require inference.
What's an example of Explicit content in media?
Content with graphic violence or sexuality is often labeled as "explicit."
Are there implicit rules in society?
Yes, many social norms are implicit and understood without being overtly stated.
Why is it important to be explicit in instructions?
To ensure clarity, reduce confusion, and achieve desired outcomes.
Are there synonyms for Implicit?
Yes, such as implied, insinuated, or inferred.
Do implicit biases always manifest visibly?
Not always; they can influence decisions or judgments unconsciously.
Is "explicitly" the adverb form of "explicit"?
Yes, it means "in a clear and detailed manner."
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
