Explicitly

Definition

Explicitly refers to something that is said or expressed in a clear and detailed manner, leaving no room for ambiguity or doubt.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsplɪsɪtli/
• Respelling: ik-SPLIS-it-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsplɪsɪtli/
• Respelling: ik-SPLIS-it-lee

In both dialects, "explicitly" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SPLIS." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "ik-SPLIS-it-lee."

Etymology

The word "explicitly" originates from the Latin word explicitus, which is the past participle of explicare, meaning "to unfold" or "to explain." The adverbial form "explicitly" evolved from the adjective "explicit," which has been in use since the late 16th century, and it emphasizes the manner in which something is expressed or conveyed with clarity.

Derivatives

• Explicit (adjective)
• Explication (noun)
• Explicate (verb)
• Explicitness (noun)
• Explicitly stated (phrase)

Synonyms

• Clearly
• Distinctly
• Unambiguously

Antonyms

• Implicitly
• Vaguely
• Ambiguously

Usage

"Explicitly" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to emphasize the clarity and precision of a statement, instruction, or explanation. It is often employed in legal, academic, and technical writing where unambiguous communication is crucial.

Related Terms

• Clarity: The quality of being easily understood.
• Precision: The quality, condition, or fact of being exact and accurate.
• Specification: An act of identifying something precisely or stating a precise requirement.

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• Without Ambiguity or Doubt: Refers to expressing something in a way that is unmistakably clear, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
  • Example: The instructions were explicitly stated, ensuring everyone understood the task.

• Direct and Forthright Expression: Used when something is conveyed openly and directly, without any hidden meanings or implications.
  • Example: The teacher explicitly told the students that cheating would not be tolerated.