Reading Theme:

Implicit: Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)

Meaning 1:Implied by context (implicit)

implicit 🔊
/ɪmˈplɪsɪt/
adj.
When something is not said clearly, but you understand it from the situation or people's actions.
Implicit understanding shown through body language in a cafe
Implied by context 🔊
/ɪmˈplaɪd baɪ ˈkɒntekst/
adj.
Something that is understood from the situation or behavior without being stated directly in words.
📁 Category:Language Evolution 🔖 Level:intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'implicitus' (past participle of 'implicare'), meaning 'folded in' — composed of 'in-' (into) and 'plicare' (to fold).
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'implied' + 'explicit' = imPLICIT: the meaning is 'in the folds' of what's said.
📖 Example
There was an implicit understanding among the team members that they would all do their best work on the project. 🔊 The team members understood each other without needing to say it out loud: they would all try their best on the project.
🔗 Collocations
implicit agreement – An agreement that is not written or spoken but is still understood by all parties.
implicit assumption – A belief or idea that is taken for granted without being expressed.
implicit criticism – A negative judgment that is suggested indirectly rather than stated openly.
🔄 Synonyms
implied (adj.) – Suggested without being directly expressed.
tacit (adj.) – Understood or implied without being stated.
unspoken (adj.) – Not expressed in speech, but still understood.
🚫 Antonyms
explicit (adj.) – Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt.
expressed (adj.) – Clearly conveyed through words or actions.
🌱 Derivatives
implicitly (adv.) – In a way that is implied, not directly stated.
implicitness (n.) – The quality of being implicit.
📖 Cultural Story
In medieval Latin, 'implicitus' described something enfolded or entangled. By the 16th century, English adopted it for ideas that are 'folded into' words rather than stated outright — a metaphor still used in law and logic.

Meaning 2:Unquestioning trust (implicit)

implicit 🔊
/ɪmˈplɪsɪt/
adj.
A feeling of trust that is so strong, it doesn't need any proof or words.
Child's implicit trust in parent during a park walk
Unquestioning trust 🔊
/ʌnˈkwestʃənɪŋ trʌst/
adj.
A deep, absolute confidence in someone or something that does not require any evidence or explanation.
📁 Category:Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level:intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example
The child had an implicit trust in her parents, knowing they would always be there for her. 🔊 The child believed completely in her parents without any doubt, secure in the knowledge that they would always support her.
🔗 Collocations
implicit faith – Complete and unquestioning belief, often used in religious or personal contexts.
implicit confidence – Total certainty in someone's ability or reliability, without needing proof.
implicit loyalty – Unwavering dedication that is not questioned or tested.
🔄 Synonyms
absolute (adj.) – Total and unconditional, without any limits or doubts.
unreserved (adj.) – Given without any hesitation or holding back.
complete (adj.) – Involving every necessary part; entire and whole.
🚫 Antonyms
skeptical (adj.) – Not easily convinced; having doubts.
distrustful (adj.) – Lacking trust or confidence in someone or something.
🌱 Derivatives
implicitly (adv.) – In a way that shows absolute trust or acceptance.
Wordbook
Font Color:
Background Color:
Your data is saved in this browser