What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illiterate
Example
My grandfather is illiterate and never learned to read or write. [illiterate: adjective]
Example
Many adults in developing countries are illiterate due to a lack of access to education. [illiterate: noun]
uneducated
Example
He dropped out of school at a young age and remained uneducated for the rest of his life. [uneducated: adjective]
Example
She may be uneducated on the topic, but she is willing to learn. [uneducated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Uneducated is a more commonly used term than illiterate in everyday language. Uneducated is a general term that can be used in various contexts, while illiterate is a more specific term that is typically used in formal or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illiterate and uneducated?
Illiterate is a more formal and technical term than uneducated. It is typically used in academic or professional settings, while uneducated is a more general term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
