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Ignorant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ignorant

[หˆษชษกnษ™rษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

inexperienced

Lacking knowledge or awareness in general; uneducated or unsophisticated.

Synonyms

illiterate, unaware, uninformed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ignorant

Describes someone who lacks knowledge or awareness in a general sense, often used in a slightly negative or critical context

  • She was ignorant of the customs of the country; Don't be so ignorant about history
uninformed

Describes someone who lacks specific information about a particular topic, often used when discussing someone's opinion or decisions

  • His opinion on the matter is uninformed; The voters felt they were uninformed about the candidates
unaware

Describes someone who does not know about something that is happening or could happen, often used in a neutral or situational context

  • He was unaware of the changes in the schedule; She was unaware of the true cost of the project
illiterate

Refers specifically to someone who cannot read or write, often used in formal or educational discussions

  • Many people in remote areas are still illiterate; The campaign aims to reduce illiteracy rates

Examples of usage

  • He was ignorant of basic mathematics.
  • She felt ignorant about the customs of the new country.
Context #2 | Adjective

rude

Discourteous or rude.

Synonyms

disrespectful, impolite, insensitive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ignorant

Use it when describing someone who lacks knowledge or awareness about a certain topic. It can sometimes sound negative, depending on the context.

  • He made an ignorant remark about the culture because he had never studied it.
  • She's ignorant about the latest technology trends.
impolite

Best used when someone displays bad manners or rudeness. It often involves social etiquette.

  • His impolite behavior at the dinner table annoyed everyone.
  • Failing to greet your colleagues can be seen as impolite.
insensitive

Appropriate for describing someone who does not show concern for the feelings of others. This word often has a negative tone.

  • His insensitive joke hurt many people's feelings.
  • She made an insensitive remark about his weight.
disrespectful

Suitable for situations where someone shows a lack of respect towards others. It generally has a negative connotation.

  • It was disrespectful of him to interrupt the speaker.
  • She made a disrespectful comment about her teacher.

Examples of usage

  • He made an ignorant comment about her appearance.
  • Don't be ignorant towards others.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'ignorant'

The word 'ignorant' comes from the Latin word 'ignorantem,' meaning 'not knowing, unaware.' It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a lack of knowledge or awareness. Over time, the word has developed negative connotations, particularly when used to describe someone who is rude or discourteous.

See also: ignorance, ignorantly, ignored, ignoring.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,936, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.