What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tacit
Example
We had a tacit agreement not to discuss politics at the dinner table. [tacit: adjective]
Example
The team had a tacit understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses. [tacit: noun]
unspoken
Example
There was an unspoken tension between the two coworkers. [unspoken: adjective]
Example
The dress code was unspoken but understood by all employees. [unspoken: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unspoken is more commonly used than tacit in everyday language, but both words are still relatively uncommon compared to more frequently used synonyms like 'implied' or 'understood'.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tacit and unspoken?
Tacit is more formal than unspoken, which is more commonly used in casual conversation or informal writing.
