Synonyms for

Stupidity

Verb / stu:ˈpɪdɪˌti: / Another word for stupidity — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the quality or state of being stupid; lack of intelligence or common sense

Synonyms & similar words

betise foolishness folly intelligence imbecility foolishness ignorance stupidness idiocy imbecility dullness simplicity stupor denseness dumbness naivete clumsiness ineptitude inanity fatuity unwisdom unintelligence senselessness brainlessness

Synonyms by register

Formal

foolishness ignorance naivety obtuse

Informal

dumbness silliness idiocy cluelessness

Literary

folly obtusion vacuity

Antonyms

intelligence wisdom cleverness sagacity acumen astuteness shrewdness

Common collocations

  • utter stupidity
  • rank stupidity
  • sheer stupidity
  • blatant stupidity
  • act of stupidity
  • moment of stupidity
  • depth of stupidity

Word family

noun stupidity
adjective stupid
adverb stupidly

Usage note

Stupidity often implies a lack of intelligence or common sense, sometimes with a negative connotation of being willful or obstinate. It is generally considered a stronger and more negative term than 'foolishness'.

Example sentences

  1. Her stupidity amazed me.
  2. His stupidity caused him to lose his job.
  3. I cannot tolerate such stupidity in my classroom.
  4. The stupidity of the decision was apparent to everyone.
  5. Stupidity is not an excuse for bad behavior.

Quotes

  • Stupidity is the deliberate cultivation of ignorance.
  • The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits.
  • One of the painful things about our time is that those who feel certainty are stupid, and those with any imagination and understanding are filled with doubt and indecision.

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