“Illiterate” means not able to read or write, or knowing very little about reading and writing.

Core meaning

  • An illiterate person cannot read or write at a basic level.
  • Many dictionaries also say it can mean “having very little education.”

Other ways the word is used

Sometimes “illiterate” is used in a broader or more casual way:

  • About a subject: “computer illiterate,” “politically illiterate” = not knowing much about that topic.
  • About writing: An “illiterate letter” can mean it is written very badly, as if by someone with little schooling.

Quick example

  • If someone cannot read a simple sentence like “The cat is on the mat,” they are illiterate in that language.

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