illiterate
ih-LIT-er-it
/ɪˈlɪtərət/
Unable to read or write; ignorant or uncultured in a specific area.
Can be applied literally (cannot read text) or metaphorically (e.g., computer illiterate).
The story behind the word. Combines the Latin negative prefix 'in-' (which assimilates to 'il-' before 'l') with 'litteratus'. Historically described anyone unable to read Latin scholars' texts.
Word relationships
- unlettered: Unlettered sounds archaic or poetic; illiterate is standard contemporary prose.
- literate: Literate means possessing reading and writing competence.
Commonly confused with
- illegible: Illegible describes handwriting that cannot be read; illiterate describes a person who cannot read.
Word family
- literacy (noun): Ability to read and write.
Collocations
- functionally illiterate
- illiterate population
- computer illiterate
- remain illiterate
Example sentences
- "Despite global initiatives, millions of adults remain illiterate due to lack of schooling." Global Education Report
- "He grew up functionally illiterate, but his sheer ambition drove him to build a successful trade business." Historical Biography
Memory hook
IL-literate = ILL-equipped to read words. IL = NOT + LITERATE.
When not to use
Avoid using as a personal insult; keep to neutral educational or technical contexts.
Fun facts
- In ancient Rome, calling an elite politician 'illiteratus' meant he couldn't write verse, not that he couldn't read.
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