Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not informed; lacking in knowledge or information: Describes a person, group, or opinion that is not based on or does not possess adequate or accurate information about a particular subject.
   • Not educated or aware: Can describe a general state of being unaware or unenlightened about facts or current events.

Usage

The adjective "uninformed" is used to describe a state of lacking knowledge. It typically precedes a noun (e.g., an uninformed opinion) or follows a linking verb (e.g., The public was uninformed). It often carries a neutral or slightly critical connotation, implying that the lack of knowledge could or should be remedied.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • It is dangerous to make important decisions based on uninformed guesses.
  • The debate was frustrating because one of the speakers was completely uninformed about the basic facts.
  • An uninformed electorate can be easily manipulated.

Advanced Usage

• "to remain uninformed": to continue to lack knowledge about something.

  • Despite the widespread news coverage, many citizens chose to remain uninformed about the policy changes.

• "blissfully uninformed": happily unaware, often of something unpleasant or troubling.

  • He was blissfully uninformed of the difficulties happening behind the scenes.

Variants and Related Words

• Uninformedness (n, rare): The state or quality of being uninformed.
• Inform (v): To give information to; to tell.
• Misinformed (adj): Given wrong or misleading information. (Note: This is different from "uninformed," which means lacking information, not having incorrect information).

Synonyms

• Ignorant: Lacking knowledge or awareness in general.
• Unaware: Having no knowledge of a situation or fact.
• Unenlightened: Not having or showing an enlightened outlook; not informed.
• Clueless (informal): Having no knowledge, understanding, or ability.

Antonyms

• Informed: Having or showing knowledge of a particular subject or situation.
• Knowledgeable: Intelligent and well informed.
• Enlightened: Having or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook.
• Aware: Having knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To operate in an uninformed vacuum: To act or make decisions without any relevant information or context.
  • The committee was operating in an uninformed vacuum, leading to poor policy choices.

Adjective

1. not informed; lacking in knowledge or information
   • the uninformed public