Ignorance

Definition

Lack of knowledge, understanding, or awareness about something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪɡnərəns/
• Respelling: IG-nuh-ruhns (with "IG" as in "tin," "nuh" as in "sofa," "ruh" as in "sofa," and "ns" as in "tins")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪɡnərəns/
• Respelling: IG-nuh-ruhns (with "IG" as in "tin," "nuh" as in "sofa," "ruh" as in "sofa," and "ns" as in "tins")

In both dialects, "ignorance" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "IG." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "IG-nuh-ruhns."

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Etymology

The term "ignorance" originates from the Old French "ignorance" and directly from Latin "ignorantia", which means "want of knowledge". It is derived from "ignorare" (not to know) which comes from the prefix "in-" (not) and the verb "gnarus" (to know).

Derivatives

• Ignorant (adjective)
• Ignorantly (adverb)
• Ignoramus (noun)
• Ignorance-proof (adjective)
• Ignorability (noun)

Synonyms

• Unawareness
• Obliviousness
• Unfamiliarity

Antonyms

• Knowledge
• Awareness
• Enlightenment

Usage

The term "ignorance" is often used to describe a lack of knowledge or awareness in a general or specific context. It can carry a neutral connotation, referring simply to a state of not knowing, or a negative connotation, implying a willful disregard for acquiring knowledge.

Related Terms

• Naivety
• Innocence
• Inexperience
• Insensitivity
• Blindness

Detailed Definition

Noun:

• General Lack of Knowledge: The condition of being uninformed or uneducated; the absence of knowledge.
  • Example: His ignorance of the subject was apparent during the discussion.

• Specific Lack of Knowledge: Unawareness or misunderstanding of a particular fact or situation.
  • Example: Her ignorance about the new policies led to confusion.

Note: While "ignorance" often carries a negative connotation, it simply refers to a lack of information or knowledge. It does not necessarily imply stupidity or incapability. In some contexts, the term can be used neutrally or sympathetically.