Innumeracy: meaning, definitions and examples
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innumeracy
[ ɪˈnjuməˌrəsi ]
lack of numbers
Innumeracy refers to a general inability to understand and work with numbers. It encompasses difficulties with basic arithmetic, understanding statistics, and interpreting quantitative information. Individuals who are innumerate may struggle with tasks like managing finances or understanding data presented in a numerical format. This skill set is considered essential in daily life, affecting decision-making and problem-solving abilities. The term highlights the importance of numerical literacy in an increasingly data-driven world.
Synonyms
numerical illiteracy, numerical incompetence, quantitative illiteracy.
Examples of usage
- His innumeracy made it hard for him to budget effectively.
- The report highlighted widespread innumeracy among the population.
- Innumeracy can lead to poor financial choices.
- Teachers are addressing innumeracy in schools to improve student outcomes.
Translations
Translations of the word "innumeracy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 innumerabilidade
🇮🇳 गणनात्मकता
🇩🇪 Unfähigkeit zu rechnen
🇮🇩 ketidakmampuan menghitung
🇺🇦 недостатня обізнаність у числах
🇵🇱 nieumiejętność liczenia
🇯🇵 算数の無知
🇫🇷 innumérisme
🇪🇸 innumerismo
🇹🇷 sayısal okuryazarlık eksikliği
🇰🇷 수학 무능력
🇸🇦 عدم القدرة على العد
🇨🇿 negramotnost v počítání
🇸🇰 negramotnosť v počítaní
🇨🇳 无数能力
🇸🇮 nesposobnost štetja
🇮🇸 óreikningur
🇰🇿 есептеу қабілетсіздігі
🇬🇪 შეფასების უნარების ნაკლებობა
🇦🇿 sayma bacarığı olmaması
🇲🇽 innumerismo
Etymology
The term 'innumeracy' was coined by mathematician John Allen Paulos in his 1988 book 'Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences.' It is a blend of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'numeracy,' which itself is derived from 'number.' Paulos aimed to draw attention to the widespread lack of mathematical skills in contemporary society, especially among adults who struggle with basic math concepts. Since its introduction, the concept of innumeracy has gained traction, emphasizing the critical need for strong numerical skills in a world dominated by data and quantitative analysis. This newfound awareness of mathematical illiteracy has led to various educational initiatives aimed at improving mathematical proficiency across all age groups.