illiteracy
/ɪˈlɪtərəsi/
inability to read or write
The government launched a campaign to reduce illiteracy in rural areas.
The campaign aims to improve reading and writing skills among people in rural communities.
formal
The inability to read or write, often due to lack of education or opportunity.
Illiteracy rates have declined significantly over the past decade.
The percentage of people who cannot read or write has decreased.
Illiteracy is often measured by the ability to read and write a simple sentence in one's native language.
Collocations
reduce illiteracyto decrease the number of people who cannot read or writefight illiteracyto take action against illiteracy
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Illiteracy is typically discussed in formal contexts, such as education reports or policy discussions.
Word Origin
From Latin 'illiteratus' (unlettered) + '-cy' (state of being).
Usage Notes
Illiteracy is often discussed in the context of education policy, social development, and economic growth.
Word Breakdown
ill-
not
prefix-literacy
ability to read and write
root-cy
state of being
suffixEnglish Dictionary