Basic Details
Word: Illiterate
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Unable to read and write; lacking knowledge in a particular subject.
Synonyms: Uneducated, uninformed, ignorant
Antonyms: Literate, educated, informed
Idioms and Phrases
- Cross your t's and dot your i's: To pay attention to detail and be careful with spelling and grammar. Example: "When writing your essay, make sure to cross your t's and dot your i's to avoid mistakes."
- Read between the lines: To understand the hidden meaning behind something that is said or written. Example: "Although the report was simple, she knew to read between the lines to grasp the real issue."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Many people in remote areas are still illiterate and do not have access to basic education.
Example 2: The campaign aims to reduce illiterate rates by providing free reading and writing classes.
Example 3: Being illiterate in today's digital world can make it difficult to find a job or access information.
Fun Fact
The word "illiterate" comes from the Latin word "illiteratus," which means "unlettered" or "not able to read." This highlights how reading and writing were historically seen as vital skills for participation in society.
Famous Quote
"A person who wont read has no advantage over one who cant read." Mark Twain
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "illiterate" mean?
a) Able to read and write
b) Unable to read and write
c) A type of bird
d) A skilled teacher
Answer: b) Unable to read and write
2. Which of these is a synonym of "illiterate"?
a) Genius
b) Uninformed
c) Scholar
d) Expert
Answer: b) Uninformed
3. Which of the following words is an antonym of "illiterate"?
a) Ignorant
b) Uneducated
c) Literate
d) Unlettered
Answer: c) Literate
4. Which sentence uses "illiterate" correctly?
a) He is illiterate and can write beautifully.
b) She is illiterate and needs help reading.
c) The illiterate poem was hard to understand.
d) The illiterate dog fetched the ball.
Answer: b) She is illiterate and needs help reading.
5. What does "read between the lines" mean?
a) To read slowly
b) To understand the hidden meaning
c) To write something new
d) To ignore text
Answer: b) To understand the hidden meaning
