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Synonyms for

Literate

Adjective / ˈlɪtɜ:ʌt / Another word for literate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

able to read and write; having knowledge or skill in a specific field

Synonyms & similar words

illiterate literateperson educated knowledgeable learned scholarly well-read informed cultured erudite intellectual enlightened versed able competent proficient skilled expert accomplished trained experienced

Synonyms by register

Formal

educated learned erudite scholarly

Informal

savvy hip in the know clued-in

Literary

lettered well-read

Antonyms

illiterate unlettered uneducated ignorant unenlightened unschooled

Common collocations

  • digitally literate
  • financially literate
  • computer literate
  • media literate
  • literate society
  • highly literate
  • fully literate

Word family

noun literacy
verb literate
adjective literate
adverb literately

Usage note

While 'literate' traditionally meant able to read and write, it now commonly refers to proficiency in a specific area, such as 'computer literate' or 'financially literate'. The verb form 'to literate' is less common than the adjective.

Compare "literate" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. My dad is very literate and can read me bedtime stories every night.
  2. I am becoming more literate in math and can solve harder problems now.
  3. The librarian is very literate and can recommend great books to read.
  4. In order to get a good job, it's important to be literate in reading and writing.
  5. My teacher is very literate and can explain difficult concepts to us.

Quotes

  • A literate person is not one who can read and write, but one who reads and writes well. - Earl Nightingale
  • “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope.” - Kofi Annan
  • Once you learn to read, you will be forever free. - Frederick Douglass

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