Meanings of 无知
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AI Study Notes for 无知
无知 (ignorance) vs 愚蠢 (foolishness) — use 无知 when referring specifically to a lack of knowledge, while 愚蠢 implies a lack of intelligence or common sense.
Be careful with the tone when pronouncing this word; it can easily be mispronounced as 无志 (wú zhì), meaning 'without ambition.' This term is more formal and may not be suitable in casual conversations. Common collocations include '无知的态度' (an ignorant attitude) and '无知无畏' (ignorant and unafraid).
As an HSK 6 word, 无知 connects with other advanced vocabulary about knowledge and learning. Focus on using it in sentences that reflect critical thinking or discussions about education. Practicing with related words like 知识 (knowledge) can enhance your understanding.
Learners often confuse 无知 with 无能 (wú néng), which means 'incompetent.' For example, saying '他很无知和无能' (tā hěn wú zhī hé wú néng) incorrectly implies ignorance equates to incompetence. The correct usage would be to separate the two concepts.
Pronunciation of 无知
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Component Characters
How to say ignorant in Chinese
“ignorant” in Chinese is无知
无知 (wú zhī) means ignorance or a lack of knowledge. It is often used to describe someone who is uninformed about a particular subject or situation. This term can carry a negative connotation, suggesting that the person's ignorance is willful or stubborn.
When to use 无知
Be careful with the tone when pronouncing this word; it can easily be mispronounced as 无志 (wú zhì), meaning 'without ambition.' This term is more formal and may not be suitable in casual conversations. Common collocations include '无知的态度' (an ignorant attitude) and '无知无畏' (ignorant and unafraid).
无知 or something close to it
无知 (ignorance) vs 愚蠢 (foolishness) — use 无知 when referring specifically to a lack of knowledge, while 愚蠢 implies a lack of intelligence or common sense.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 无知 with 无能 (wú néng), which means 'incompetent.' For example, saying '他很无知和无能' (tā hěn wú zhī hé wú néng) incorrectly implies ignorance equates to incompetence. The correct usage would be to separate the two concepts.
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Practice writing 无知 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 无知
无知 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
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他对国际事务缺乏经验且____，这很让我吃惊。
I was alarmed by his naivety and ignorance of international affairs.
Example Sentences for 无知 (9)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 无知
Yes, it typically has a negative connotation, suggesting not just a lack of knowledge but also a refusal to seek it.
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