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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.

He referred to a 10-point plan that Caribbean nations have put to European nations, including international debt cancellation, as well as support for healthcare and illiteracy eradication.

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

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

After confessing his illiteracy on TikTok, a fitness influencer discovered that his online audience was ready to help him learn to read.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 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

The only illiteracy with apostrophes that stirs any sympathy in me is the greengrocer’s variety.

From "Eats, Shoots & Leaves" by Author




Vocabulary lists containing illiteracy


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