Uneducated: meaning, definitions and examples
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uneducated
[ ˌʌnˈɛdʒʊˌkeɪtɪd ]
lack of formal education
Not having received a formal education or lacking knowledge in a particular subject.
Synonyms
ignorant, illiterate, uninformed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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uneducated |
This word is appropriate for describing someone who has not had formal education. It does not inherently carry a negative connotation and focuses on lack of schooling.
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ignorant |
This word is often used to describe someone who lacks knowledge or awareness in a specific area. It can have a negative connotation, implying a deliberate lack of effort to learn.
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uninformed |
Use this word to describe someone who does not have the necessary information about a particular topic. It lacks the negative overtones of 'ignorant' and is more neutral.
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illiterate |
This term is used specifically to indicate someone who cannot read or write. It clearly points to a lack of basic literacy skills.
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Examples of usage
- He was often criticized for his uneducated opinions on politics.
- Her uneducated background did not prevent her from pursuing her dreams.
lacking cultural refinement
Not possessing cultural or intellectual refinement.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
uneducated |
Refers to someone who has not received formal education or lacks certain levels of schooling. It is neutral and often used in discussing access to education or the necessity of educational reforms.
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uncultured |
Used to describe someone who has not been exposed to the arts, literature, or other aspects of cultivated life. This word can carry a mildly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of sophistication or appreciation for higher cultural norms.
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crude |
Describes a person who is rough in manners or speech, often lacking politeness or social norms. This term has a negative connotation and implies an absence of refinement or sophistication.
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unrefined |
Indicates a lack of polish, sophistication, or gentleness in manners, taste, or appearance. It may imply that someone or something is raw, basic, or coarse.
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Examples of usage
- The uneducated behavior of the guests shocked the host.
- His uneducated taste in art was evident from his collection.
Translations
Translations of the word "uneducated" in other languages:
🇵🇹 não educado
🇮🇳 अशिक्षित
🇩🇪 ungebildet
🇮🇩 tidak berpendidikan
🇺🇦 недосвідчений
🇵🇱 niewykształcony
🇯🇵 無教育
🇫🇷 non éduqué
🇪🇸 no educado
🇹🇷 eğitimsiz
🇰🇷 교육을 받지 못한
🇸🇦 غير متعلم
🇨🇿 nevzdělaný
🇸🇰 nevzdelaný
🇨🇳 未受教育
🇸🇮 neizobražen
🇮🇸 ómenntaður
🇰🇿 білімсіз
🇬🇪 განათლების არმქონე
🇦🇿 təhsilsiz
🇲🇽 no educado
Etymology
The word 'uneducated' originated in the late 16th century, combining the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'educated'. It has been used to describe individuals lacking formal education or cultural refinement. The term highlights the importance of learning and knowledge in society.
See also: educable, educated, educatedly, educating, education, educational, educator, educators.