C1noun2K

Ignorance

UK /["/ˈɪɡnərəns/"]/US /["/ˈɪɡnərəns/"]/

Definition

a lack of knowledge or information about something

In simple words: Not knowing something or lacking information.

Examples

  • The danger of ignorance is that people often fail to recognize their own biases.
  • Ignorance about health risks can lead to poor lifestyle choices.
  • His ignorance of the law did not exempt him from punishment.
  • The politician exploited the public's ignorance to spread false information.
  • Sometimes, ignorance is bliss when the truth is too harsh to accept.

Usage notes

Used to refer to a lack of knowledge or awareness. Can be formal in texts but is generally neutral. Not appropriate in polite conversation to describe someone's lack of knowledge directly.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'ignore' to remember ignorance—like ignoring the facts and being unaware.

Collocations

  • complete
  • total
  • utter
  • betray
  • demonstrate
  • display
  • due to ignorance
  • in ignorance  (of)
  • in your ignorance

Synonyms

  • unawareness
  • ignorance
  • naivety
  • illiteracy
  • oblivion

Antonyms

  • knowledge
  • awareness
  • understanding

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'ignore' - Ignorance means lack of knowledge, not simply ignoring something.
  • Using inappropriately in polite contexts - It's often seen as rude to call someone ignorant directly.