• 2-minute read
• 18th October 2015

Word Choice: Implicit vs. Explicit

In academic writing we often use words which we might not know from daily life. A good example of this is ‘implicit’ and ‘explicit’: commonly found in a variety of academic fields, yet not terms you’d use that often when hanging out with friends!

‘Implicit’ and ‘explicit’ are also good examples because it’s absolutely vital that you don’t confuse them: they’re opposite terms, so using ‘explicit’ when you mean ‘implicit’ will change the meaning of a sentence.

Implicit (Expressed Indirectly)

The adjective ‘implicit’ means ‘understood without expression’ or ‘expressed indirectly’. This will be something implied by but not stated directly.

For instance, we could use ‘implicit’ to discuss the ‘implicit meaning’ of an author’s work. C. S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, for example, does not mention religion directly, but it is widely interpreted as being a Christian allegory. As such, we might say:

C. S. Lewis implicitly advocates Christianity in his writing.

Similarly, when we refer to ‘implicit’ knowledge, we’re discussing things that we understand without necessarily being aware:

Despite not being told, Joseph implicitly knew how to dance the Macarena.

Explicit (Clearly Stated)

The meaning of ‘explicit’ is ‘fully and clearly expressed’. Since C. S. Lewis has written about the Christian imagery in his fictional works, for example, we could say:

Although his works were allegorical, C. S. Lewis has explicitly addressed Christian themes elsewhere.

Another meaning of ‘explicit’ is when it refers to forthright or unreserved language:

Olivia’s criticism of his work was explicit, so at least Tim knew what needed improving.

It’s from this meaning that we get the term ‘explicit language’ for swearing in films! Similarly, you can also use ‘explicit’ to describe something that displays graphic violence, nudity or similarly adult content.

Implicit or Explicit?

The thing to remember is that we use ‘implicit’ when something is left unstated or unexpressed, whereas ‘explicit’ means the opposite:

Implicit = Unstated

Explicit = Stated clearly and fully

But if you’re still having trouble knowing which of ‘implicit’ or ‘explicit’ to use in any given situation, or if you simply want a fresh pair of eyes to check your work, why not send a 500-word sample to Proofed for free today?