I was explicit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was explicit" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that you were clear and detailed in your communication or instructions. Example: "During the meeting, I was explicit about the project's requirements to avoid any misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

So I was explicit about my partner Karen being important to me from the start.

Independent

I was explicit, and my co-authors included were explicit in that the point, as we understood it, was communicating in a way that could be understood what the results were and could suggest the implications.

Science Magazine

I was explicit about how we would be doing a lot of real world like work to prepare them for grappling with biology problems postcollege.

CBE Life Sciences Education

I was explicit with them that they would at times be in their comfort zone and at other times out of their comfort zone.

CBE Life Sciences Education

I was explicit with my students that aspects of my teaching might be highly effective for some of them while simultaneously being benign or perhaps even frustrating to others.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

And I'm explicit about that.

The New York Times

It would be worse if I'm explicit with my expectation of him because that creates a demand on him.

Huffington Post

But I warn you, it's explicit and I use a very strong word, offensive, to describe Mrs. Reagan.

Huffington Post

In the interview, he was explicit: "I do think there is a high likelihood that we'll see some high-profile failures in the next year or two".

TechCrunch

Last November Clinton published an article in the Forward whose title was explicit: "How I Would Reaffirm Unbreakable Bond With Israel -- and Benjamin Netanyahu".

Huffington Post

The bargain was explicit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "I was explicit", follow it with a 'that' clause or a prepositional phrase to clarify the subject of your explicitness. For instance, 'I was explicit that deadlines were non-negotiable' or 'I was explicit about the potential risks.'

Common error

While "I was explicit" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or assertive in casual conversations. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "I made it clear" or "I explained it simply" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was explicit" functions as a statement of intent or action, indicating that the speaker communicated something in a clear and unambiguous manner. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I was explicit" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that indicates a clear and detailed communication style. Ludwig confirms its linguistic validity. While not overly common, it appears most frequently in news and media and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When writing, consider using related phrases like "I stated it clearly" or "I made it plain" for variety. Ensure that the context warrants the level of formality implied by "I was explicit", and always follow it with clarifying information about the subject of your explicitness to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I stated it clearly

Emphasizes the clarity of the statement.

I made it plain

Highlights the simplicity and ease of understanding.

I was very clear

Focuses on the absence of ambiguity.

I communicated directly

Stresses the absence of intermediaries or indirectness.

I expressed myself unambiguously

Highlights the lack of potential for misinterpretation.

I left no room for doubt

Indicates a conclusive and certain statement.

I defined it precisely

Suggests accuracy and attention to detail in the statement.

I spelled it out

Emphasizes a thorough and detailed explanation.

I articulated my position

Focuses on the clarity and structured nature of the expression.

I was straightforward

Highlights the direct and honest nature of the statement.

FAQs

What does "I was explicit" mean?

The phrase "I was explicit" means that the speaker communicated something in a very clear, direct, and detailed manner, leaving no room for ambiguity or misunderstanding.

How can I use "I was explicit" in a sentence?

You can use "I was explicit" when you want to emphasize the clarity and directness of your communication. For example: "I was explicit about my expectations for the project."

What can I say instead of "I was explicit"?

You can use alternatives like "I was clear", "I was straightforward", or "I made it plain" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "I was explicit"?

It is appropriate to use "I was explicit" in situations where clarity and directness are crucial, such as giving instructions, setting expectations, or conveying important information. However, avoid using it in informal settings where it may sound overly formal.