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innumerate

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɪˈnjuːməreɪt/

KK: /ɪˈnuːməˌreɪt/

adjective
Definition

Not having the ability to understand or work with numbers and mathematical concepts.


Example

Many people feel innumerate when faced with complex statistics.


Conversation
Sloth A
I found out that many people are still innumerate when it comes to basic math skills.
Sloth B
Really? That's surprising in this day and age.
Sloth A
Yeah, it makes me think about how important math education is for everyone.
Sloth B
Definitely! We need to help those who feel innumerate to improve their skills.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
illiterate
uneducated
ignorant
Antonyms
literate
educated
knowledgeable
noun
Definition

A person who does not understand basic math or numbers.


Example

Many people in the community are considered innumerate, struggling with simple calculations.


Conversation
Sloth A
I was helping my little brother with his homework, and it made me realize he's kind of an innumerate when it comes to math.
Sloth B
Really? What do you mean by that?
Sloth A
He just struggles to grasp the basic concepts, like addition and subtraction.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Innumerate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "numerare" (meaning to count). The word "innumerate" refers to someone who is not able to count or lacks numerical understanding.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to 'count' ('numerare') — that's why innumerate means someone who cannot count.

Visually Confused Words
numerate
connumerate
inumbrate
innervate
enumerate
unenumerated
renumerate
numerative
Is this page helpful?
Yeah, I think many kids start out as innumerate and need extra help to catch up.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
illiterate
ignorant
uneducated
Antonyms
mathematician
expert
scholar