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illiteracy — the inability to read and write; lack of knowledge in a particular area

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: the inability to read and write; lack of knowledge in a particular area

Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪˈlɪtərəsi/

Example Sentences

  • The king's illiteracy was kept secret because he signed documents with a thumbprint instead of his signature.
  • Computer illiteracy among teachers became obvious when they tried to turn on the monitor with a TV remote.
  • The government launched a campaign to reduce adult illiteracy in rural areas.

illiteracy

NOUN

[/ɪˈlɪtərəsi/]

the inability to read and write; lack of knowledge in a particular area

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ɪˈlɪtərəsi/
🇬🇧 UK/ɪˈlɪtərəsi/

🌳Etymology

Prefixil--
Rootliter
Suffix--acy

Origin

From Latin 'illiteratus', combining the prefix 'in-' (not) with 'literatus' (educated, lettered), derived from 'littera' meaning letter or writing.

Breakdown

il- (not) + literate (able to read and write) + -cy (state or condition) = illiteracy

🎵Rhyme

literacy
piracy
conspiracy

🔗Collocations

widespread illiteracy
combat illiteracy
digital illiteracy
functional illiteracy
illiteracy rate
financial illiteracy

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The king's illiteracy was kept secret because he signed documents with a thumbprint instead of his signature.”

😄 Fun example

“Computer illiteracy among teachers became obvious when they tried to turn on the monitor with a TV remote.”

“The government launched a campaign to reduce adult illiteracy in rural areas.”

“Her financial illiteracy led to mounting credit card debt and poor investment decisions.”

📚Related Words

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