ignore

/ɪˈɡnɔːr/
verbBeginner
formalinformal

To deliberately pay no attention to something or someone; to refuse to acknowledge or respond to something.

She chose to ignore the rude comment and continued with her presentation.

He ignored the warning signs and proceeded with the risky investment.

💡

Can be used both in formal and informal contexts, though it may sound more abrupt in informal settings.

Collocations

ignore the rulesto deliberately not follow established guidelinesignore the adviceto disregard someone's counsel or recommendationsignore the consequencesto act without considering potential outcomes

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

turn a blind eyeidiom
to deliberately ignore something wrong or inappropriate
stick your head in the sandidiom
to ignore unpleasant facts or problems

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

In formal contexts, 'ignore' can be used to describe deliberate disregard, while in informal contexts, it may sound more abrupt or dismissive.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The tone of 'ignore' can vary greatly depending on the context. Use it carefully in professional settings.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'ignorer' (14th century), from Latin 'ignorare' (to not know), from 'in-' (not) + 'gnoscere' (to know).

📝Usage Notes

Can imply disrespect or indifference if used in certain contexts. Often used in both formal and informal settings.

Word Breakdown

in-
not
prefix
+
-gnor
know
root
+
-e
verb ending
suffix
English Dictionary