C1adverbformal2K

Explicitly

UK /["/ɪkˈsplɪsɪtli/"]/US /["/ɪkˈsplɪsɪtli/"]/

Definition

clearly or directly, so that the meaning is easy to understand

In simple words: In a clear and direct way.

Examples

  • The report states explicitly that the system was to blame.
  • The text does not explicitly mention him by name.
  • the explicitly sexual content of the image

Usage notes

Use 'explicitly' when you want to emphasize that something is clearly stated, especially in formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

explicitly + state/indicate/mention

Memory hint

Sounds like 'ex-plain-it-lee' — imagine explaining something very clearly.

Collocations

  • state explicitly
  • say explicitly
  • ask explicitly
  • require explicitly

Synonyms

  • clearly
  • directly
  • openly
  • specifically
  • plainly

Antonyms

  • implicitly
  • ambiguously

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'implicitly', which means something is suggested but not stated outright.
  • Using it in informal speech where simpler words would suffice.
  • Misplacing it in the sentence, leading to unclear meaning.