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Preposition after adjective

Explicit in or explicit about?

Explicit about is the usual pattern for stating a topic clearly. Explicit in is used when describing clarity within speech, writing, rules, or instructions.

Quick answer

How do you use explicit with prepositions?

Use explicit about when naming the subject being discussed clearly. Use explicit in when referring to clarity inside a document, statement, or explanation.

The manager was explicit about the deadline.
The contract is explicit in its safety requirements.
She was very explicit about her expectations.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
explicit about + topic

Clearly stating a subject or issue

Use explicit about when someone speaks or writes clearly about a topic.

They were explicit about the risks.
The teacher was explicit about exam rules.
2
explicit in + document/speech

Showing clarity within communication

Use explicit in when referring to something clearly expressed in text, instructions, or statements.

The report was explicit in its recommendations.
She was explicit in describing the procedure.
3
explicit about + intention/feeling

Clearly expressing intentions or opinions

This pattern is common in personal and professional communication.

He was explicit about wanting a promotion.
They remained explicit about their concerns.

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
explicit about
She was explicit about the costs.
Clearly stated the topic or issue.
explicit in
The manual is explicit in its instructions.
Contains clear detail within the text or communication.
explicit with
The lawyer was explicit with the client about the risks.
With introduces the person receiving the information, not the main adjective pattern.

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using explicit in for a topic

When naming the subject discussed, explicit about is usually more natural.

✕ He was explicit in the budget cuts. ✓ He was explicit about the budget cuts.

Confusing topic and location meanings

Explicit in refers to clarity inside a text or explanation.

✕ The manager was explicit in the delays. ✓ The manager was explicit about the delays.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The policy is explicit ___ employee conduct.
2. The instructions are explicit ___ their safety warnings.
3. She was explicit ___ her concerns during the meeting.

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Frequently asked questions

Which is more common: explicit about or explicit in?

Explicit about is more common for everyday communication about topics or issues.

Can explicit in describe a person?

Yes. It can describe how clearly a person expresses something in speech or writing.

Is explicit with correct?

Yes, but with usually introduces the listener or reader, not the topic itself.

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