ILLITERACIES Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

illiteracy

noun

(ˌ)i(l)-ˈli-t(ə-)rə-sē

Definition of illiteracy

as in ignorance

the state of being unlearned far too many children are doomed to a lifetime of illiteracy in that country

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of illiteracy An early example was Radio Sutatenza, launched in 1947 by a Catholic priest hoping to combat illiteracy in rural communities of Colombia; the local effort eventually expanded to provide a variety of educational programming across a national network. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Apr. 2026 This historical illiteracy – as well as a fundamental lack of understanding about what constitutes anti-Semitism – leaves institutions without clear standards for addressing the centuries-old hatred. — Kenneth L. Marcus, Boston Herald, 13 Apr. 2026 And, contrary to some of its predecessors, The Audacity foregrounds the human wreckage that results from this explosive combination of emotional illiteracy and immense power. — Miles Klee, Wired News, 12 Apr. 2026 They were not allowed to use their logo — a cricket bat — which is crucial in a country that has a high illiteracy rate. — Nick Miller, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for illiteracy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for illiteracy

ignorance

Noun

Just as Fisher was able to glean something new about David Beckham through his ignorance of the England star’s football career, Macdonald got under Guardiola’s skin by using his disinterest in the sport as a superpower.

— Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 21 Aug. 2026
Officials say ignorance leads to hate crimes and a misunderstanding of Islam persists.

— Carolyn Gusoff, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of ignorance

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illimitable

illiteracy

illiterate

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“Illiteracy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illiteracy. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of illiteracy

noun

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