Ignorance: meaning, definitions and examples

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ignorance

 

[ ˈɪɡnərəns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

lack of knowledge

Ignorance is the lack of knowledge or information about a particular subject or topic. It can result from a lack of education, experience, or exposure to certain ideas or concepts. Ignorance can lead to misunderstandings, prejudice, and uninformed decision-making.

Synonyms

ignorant, lack of knowledge, unawareness

Examples of usage

  • Ignorance of other cultures can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.
  • His ignorance about technology is evident in his inability to use basic software.
  • She displayed her ignorance by making assumptions without seeking more information.
Context #2 | Noun

disregard for facts

Ignorance can also refer to a willful disregard for facts or information. It may manifest as a deliberate refusal to accept reality or evidence, often driven by personal biases, beliefs, or agendas.

Synonyms

deliberate ignorance, denial, ignoring the truth

Examples of usage

  • The politician's ignorance of scientific data led to ineffective policies.
  • His ignorance of climate change is evident in his dismissive attitude towards environmental concerns.

Translations

Translations of the word "ignorance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ignorância

🇮🇳 अज्ञानता

🇩🇪 Ignoranz

🇮🇩 ketidaktahuan

🇺🇦 невігластво

🇵🇱 ignorancja

🇯🇵 無知 (むち)

🇫🇷 ignorance

🇪🇸 ignorancia

🇹🇷 cehalet

🇰🇷 무지 (mujji)

🇸🇦 جهل (jahl)

🇨🇿 nevědomost

🇸🇰 nevedomosť

🇨🇳 无知 (wúzhī)

🇸🇮 nevednost

🇮🇸 vanþekking

🇰🇿 надандық

🇬🇪 უმეცრება (umec'k'reba)

🇦🇿 cahillik

🇲🇽 ignorancia

Etymology

The word 'ignorance' originated from the Latin word 'ignorantia', which means 'lack of knowledge'. Throughout history, ignorance has been recognized as a barrier to progress and understanding. Philosophers and thinkers have often emphasized the importance of combating ignorance through education, curiosity, and critical thinking. In modern times, the term is widely used to highlight the dangers of misinformation, bias, and intellectual closed-mindedness.

See also: ignorant, ignorantly, ignored, ignoring.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,180, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.