Synonyms for

Implicit

Verb / ˌɪˈmplɪsʌt / Another word for implicit — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Implied though not plainly expressed; inherent in the nature of something.

Synonyms & similar words

inexplicit explicit unquestioning implied indirect unspoken unexpressed implied tacit unsaid unwritten hinted understood implied inferred underlying latent suggested subtle under-the-table unacknowledged covert veiled

Synonyms by register

Formal

implied inferred unspoken understood

Informal

hinted at under the surface between the lines

Literary

latent subtle veiled

Antonyms

explicit stated direct obvious clear expressed plain

Common collocations

  • implicit bias
  • implicit agreement
  • implicit understanding
  • implicit permission
  • implicit meaning
  • implicit criticism
  • implicit assumption

Word family

noun implicitness
adverb implicitly

Usage note

Often used in contexts where something is suggested rather than directly stated. Be careful not to confuse with 'explicit', which means stated clearly and in detail.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher's implicit assumption was that all the students understood the lesson.
  2. The message of the painting was implicit rather than explicit.
  3. The implicit meaning of the story was that perseverance pays off.
  4. The instructions were implicit, so I had to guess what to do.
  5. The implicit agreement was that we would split the profits evenly.

Quotes

  • The implicit message of TV dramas is that if you're in trouble, call the police. But the reality is that the police often show up after the fact.
  • Our implicit biases can affect our decisions without us even realizing it.
  • In any creative medium, there are always implicit rules that the artist follows.

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