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Definitions

illiteracy

[ih-lit-er-uh-see] / ɪˈlɪt ər ə si /
NOUN
inability to read or write
Synonyms
Antonyms
STRONGEST
STRONG


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This included asking for a full formal apology, cancelling foreign debts and investment to tackle illiteracy and public health issues.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

Her Imagination Library, inspired by her belief that her father had been “crippled” by illiteracy, has reportedly distributed some 300 million books to children.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

In a lesser-known history, the federal government helped bring public education to Southern white children, whose illiteracy rates prior to Reconstruction were five times as high as in the North.

From Slate • Feb. 6, 2025

Let’s talk about the widespread scientific illiteracy in this country.

From Salon • Dec. 28, 2024

If the machine were used deliberately for that end, hunger, overwork, dirt, illiteracy, and disease could be eliminated within a few generations.

From "1984" by George Orwell




Vocabulary lists containing illiteracy


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