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How to Say "explicit" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “explicit” is “explícito” — use 'explícito' when something is clearly and directly stated, leaving no room for doubt, or when referring to content that is graphically detailed, especially concerning violence or sexual themes..

English → Spanish

explícito

adjectiveB1/B2general
Use 'explícito' when something is clearly and directly stated, leaving no room for doubt, or when referring to content that is graphically detailed, especially concerning violence or sexual themes.

Examples

El profesor dio instrucciones explícitas para el examen.

The teacher gave explicit instructions for the exam.

expreso

/ex-PREH-soh//eksˈpɾeso/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'expreso' when referring to something that is clearly stated or made known, particularly in a formal or official manner. It can also be used for express trains.
A sleek modern high-speed train zooming across a green landscape.

Examples

Manifestó su deseo expreso de no ser molestado.

He expressed his explicit desire not to be disturbed.

Llegó en el tren expreso de las cinco.

He arrived on the five o'clock express train.

Lo hizo por deseo expreso de su madre.

He did it by the express wish of his mother.

Existe una prohibición expresa de fumar aquí.

There is an explicit prohibition against smoking here.

Matching the Noun

As a describing word, 'expreso' must change to 'expresa' if the thing it describes is feminine (e.g., 'petición expresa').

gráfico

adjectiveB1general
Use 'gráfico' when something is presented in a very clear, detailed, and often visual manner, sometimes implying a level of intensity or directness that can be shocking, similar to 'explicit' in the context of graphic content.

Examples

La novela contenía descripciones gráficas de la guerra.

The novel contained graphic descriptions of the war.

Choosing Between 'Explícito' and 'Expreso'

The most common confusion is between 'explícito' and 'expreso'. While both can mean 'clearly stated', 'explícito' is more general and also covers graphic or detailed content. 'Expreso' is typically used for clearly stated intentions or wishes, and also for express services like trains.

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