What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ignorance
Example
His ignorance of basic math concepts made it difficult for him to complete the assignment. [ignorance: noun]
Example
I was ignorant of the fact that the store closed early on Sundays. [ignorant: adjective]
ignoramus
Example
He's such an ignoramus when it comes to science. [ignoramus: noun]
Example
Don't be an ignoramus and believe everything you read on the internet. [ignoramus: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ignorance is more commonly used than ignoramus in everyday language. Ignorance is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ignoramus is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ignorance and ignoramus?
Ignorance is more formal than ignoramus. It is often used in academic or professional settings to describe a lack of knowledge or information about a particular subject. On the other hand, ignoramus is more informal and can be considered rude or insulting in some contexts.
