Literacy: meaning, definitions and examples

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literacy

 

[ ˈlɪt(ə)rəsi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

education

The ability to read and write. Literacy is considered a fundamental skill in modern society.

Synonyms

reading and writing skills

Examples of usage

  • Literacy rates have been steadily increasing in the past decade.
  • Basic literacy skills are essential for success in school and in the workforce.
Context #2 | Noun

digital technology

The ability to understand, evaluate, and create digital content. Digital literacy is becoming increasingly important in the digital age.

Synonyms

digital skills

Examples of usage

  • Digital literacy includes the ability to navigate the internet and use technology effectively.
  • Many schools are now incorporating digital literacy skills into their curriculum.
Context #3 | Noun

statistics

The percentage of people who can read and write in a particular area or population.

Synonyms

literacy rate

Examples of usage

  • The literacy rate in that region is below the national average.
  • Illiteracy remains a significant issue in some parts of the world.

Translations

Translations of the word "literacy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alfabetização

🇮🇳 साक्षरता

🇩🇪 Alphabetisierung

🇮🇩 melek huruf

🇺🇦 грамотність

🇵🇱 alfabetyzacja

🇯🇵 識字

🇫🇷 alphabétisation

🇪🇸 alfabetización

🇹🇷 okuryazarlık

🇰🇷 문해

🇸🇦 تعليم القراءة والكتابة

🇨🇿 gramotnost

🇸🇰 gramotnosť

🇨🇳 识字

🇸🇮 pismenost

🇮🇸 læsi

🇰🇿 сауаттылық

🇬🇪 წიგნიერება

🇦🇿 savadlılıq

🇲🇽 alfabetización

Etymology

The word 'literacy' originated from the Latin word 'litteratus', which means 'educated' or 'learned'. The concept of literacy has evolved over centuries, from a focus on basic reading and writing skills to encompassing a broader range of abilities in the digital age. In modern society, literacy is recognized as a crucial skill for personal development, education, and participation in the workforce.

See also: illiterate, literary, literature.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,408 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.