What does "tacit" most nearly mean?

The term "tacit" most nearly means understood without being openly expressed. It refers to knowledge or agreement that is not explicitly stated but is recognized based on context or shared understanding. For example, a tacit agreement between two parties might exist even if they have not formally documented or articulated their mutual acknowledgment. This concept is central in communication, where non-verbal cues or unspoken assumptions can convey meanings that remain unstated.

While the other options may seem related, they do not capture the nuanced meaning of "tacit" as effectively. "Expressed" involves clear communication, "implied" suggests that something is hinted at but not necessarily understood, and "obvious" refers to something that is readily apparent and clear, which diverges from the subtlety captured by "tacit." Thus, understanding that "tacit" emphasizes an unspoken, inherent understanding aids in grasping its proper usage in various contexts.