IMPLICITLY

Definition of IMPLICITLY

IMPLICITLY Adverb

Implicitly is an adverb used to describe actions, expressions, or understandings that are conveyed or understood indirectly, without being stated outright. It refers to something that is implied or suggested rather than explicitly communicated. When something is done implicitly, it means that the meaning or intention is inferred from context rather than directly expressed.

Indirect Communication: Implicitly often involves indirect forms of communication where the intended message is not explicitly stated. For example, if a person nods their head in agreement without verbally saying “yes,” their agreement is communicated implicitly. This form of communication relies on contextual cues and shared understanding to convey meaning.

Assumptions and Inferences: In many situations, implicitly refers to assumptions or inferences made based on the context or existing knowledge. For instance, if someone says, “It’s getting late,” they might implicitly suggest that it is time to leave, even if they do not directly state it. These inferences are based on social norms or situational context.

Understanding and Interpretation: Implicitly conveys the idea that understanding or interpretation is required to grasp the full meaning of a message or situation. For example, a character in a novel might implicitly reveal their true feelings through their actions and behavior, requiring readers to interpret these cues to understand their emotions or intentions.

Contrast with Explicitly: The concept of implicitly is contrasted with explicitly, which describes direct and clear communication. While explicitly involves stating something in a clear and unambiguous manner, implicitly involves conveying meaning in a more subtle or indirect way. For instance, saying “I am tired” is explicit, while suggesting through body language or tone of voice that one is tired is implicit.

Cultural and Social Contexts: Implicitly is often used in social and cultural contexts where indirect communication is common. Different cultures may have varying norms for implicit communication, with some emphasizing directness and others relying more on subtle cues and indirect expressions. Understanding these cultural differences can help in interpreting implicit messages accurately.

Legal and Formal Documents: In legal and formal contexts, implicitly can refer to underlying assumptions or principles that are not explicitly stated but are understood to be part of agreements or regulations. For example, certain rights or obligations might be implicitly included in a contract even if not explicitly mentioned.

Psychological and Cognitive Aspects: Psychologically, implicitly can relate to subconscious or automatic processes where individuals understand or respond to cues without conscious awareness. For example, implicit biases or attitudes are formed and influence behavior without overt acknowledgment.

In conclusion, implicitly describes actions, communications, or understandings that are conveyed or inferred indirectly rather than explicitly stated. Whether in personal interactions, cultural contexts, legal documents, or psychological processes, implicit meaning relies on contextual cues and shared knowledge to convey information. Recognizing and interpreting implicit messages involves understanding the nuances and subtleties of communication that are not immediately apparent.

Examples of IMPLICITLY in a sentence

  • She implicitly trusted her colleagues, even without needing explicit assurances.
  • The agreement implicitly included a non-compete clause, although it was not explicitly mentioned.
  • His tone of voice implicitly suggested dissatisfaction, despite his words being polite.
  • The novel’s plot implicitly conveyed themes of betrayal and redemption through its characters’ actions.
  • The company’s policies implicitly required adherence to ethical standards, even if not stated directly.
  • Her supportive actions implicitly communicated her commitment to the project.
  • The instructions were implicitly clear, making it easy to understand the expected procedure.
  • The film’s dialogue implicitly addressed societal issues without overtly discussing them.

Origin of IMPLICITLY

Implicitly traces its origins back to the Latin word implicitus, meaning “entangled” or “involved,” derived from the verb implicare (to entangle or involve), which combines in- (in) and plicare (to fold or weave).

  • Latin: Implicitus (entangled, involved), from implicare (to entangle), from in- (in) and plicare (to fold, to weave).
  • Old French: The Latin implicitus evolved into Old French as implicite, meaning “entangled” or “implied.”
  • Middle English: The term entered Middle English as implicit, carrying meanings related to being implied or not directly stated.

In contemporary English, implicitly describes something that is implied or understood without being directly stated. It refers to actions, meanings, or assumptions that are not explicitly expressed but are inferred or taken for granted. The term has evolved from its Latin roots to encompass a range of contexts where something is understood or accepted without being overtly communicated. Implicitly reflects the idea of underlying or hidden meanings that are recognized through context or implication.

Synonyms

  • Tacitly
  • Unspokenly
  • Indirectly
  • Inherently
  • Suggestively
  • Hinted
  • Assumed
  • Impliedly

Antonyms

  • Explicitly
  • Clearly
  • Directly
  • Overtly
  • Forthrightly
  • Unambiguously
  • Plainly
  • Clearly

Related

  • Implicit
  • Suggestion
  • Inference
  • Assumption
  • Underlying
  • Subtext
  • Intimation
  • Nuance

🌐 🇬🇧 IMPLICITLY in other languages

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