illiteracy
UK: ɪˈlɪtərəsi | US: ɪˈlɪtərəsi
n. the inability to read or write
n. lack of knowledge in a specific subject (figurative use)
"Illiteracy" traces back to Latin roots, combining negation ("il-") with "litera" (letter) to denote the absence of literacy. The suffix "-acy" formalizes the abstract state. The word emerged in English in the 17th century, reflecting societal emphasis on education. Its figurative use (e.g., "financial illiteracy") extends the original logic to broader knowledge gaps.
The government launched a campaign to reduce illiteracy in rural areas.
Technological illiteracy can hinder career advancement in modern workplaces.
Her novel highlights the struggles of illiteracy in marginalized communities.
The study revealed a correlation between poverty and illiteracy rates.
Critics argue that cultural illiteracy weakens public discourse.