Illiterate Meaning and Definition
Illiterate
Pronunciation
/ɪˈlɪtərət/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Lacking the ability to read or write; unable to read or write.
Examples
- The organization provides literacy programs to help individuals become illiterate.
- Many people remain illiterate in rural areas due to limited access to education.
Etymology
The word “illiterate” comes from the Latin “illiteratus”, meaning “uneducated” or “without letters”.
Usage Notes
The term “illiterate” is often used to describe individuals who are unable to read or write due to lack of education or other factors. It is important to use the term with sensitivity and respect.
Cultural References
In the book “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, the character Fatima is described as illiterate but has a deep understanding of the world.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Blind as an illiterate” is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who is unaware or uninformed about something.
Related Words or Phrases
Ignorant, uneducated, unsophisticated, unlettered
Collocations
Illiterate person, illiterate rate, illiterate population
Frequency of Use
The word “illiterate” is commonly used in discussions about education and literacy rates.
Common Misspellings
Illiterite, Illiteret, Illetterate