Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Not alphabetic; not arranged in alphabetical order: Describes a system, arrangement, or sequence that does not follow the standard order of the letters (A, B, C...).
   • Relating to or expressed by a non-alphabetic writing system: Pertains to writing systems that do not use an alphabet, such as logographic or syllabic systems.
   • Unlettered; illiterate: Having little or no acquaintance with writing; unable to read or write.

2. Noun:

   • An illiterate person who does not know the alphabet: A person who lacks the most basic literacy skill of recognizing the letters.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:

  • The index was confusing because it was completely analphabetic.
  • Chinese characters are an analphabetic writing system.
  • Special programs were designed for the analphabetic population.

• Noun:

  • The charity's goal was to teach basic reading skills to analphabetics.

Advanced Usage

• Analphabetic ordering: A sequence, such as a list or index, that is not ordered from A to Z.
  • The files were stored in an analphabetic but numerically logical sequence.

Variants and Related Words

• Analphabetism (n): The state of being analphabetic; illiteracy.
  • The government launched a campaign to reduce analphabetism.

Synonyms

• Non-alphabetic (adj): Not based on an alphabet.
• Illiterate (adj/n): Unable to read or write; an uneducated person.
• Unlettered (adj): Not well educated; lacking literacy.

Antonyms

• Alphabetic (adj): Arranged in the order of the letters of the alphabet.
• Literate (adj/n): Able to read and write; an educated person.

Adjective

1. having little acquaintance with writing
   • special tutorials to assist the unlettered sector of society
2. not alphabetic
   • an analphabetic arrangement of letters
   • Jesperson's system of phonetic transcription is analphabetic
3. relating to or expressed by a writing system that is not alphabetic

Noun

1. an illiterate person who does not know the alphabet