ignorancia
“ignorancia” means “ignorance” in Spanish (general lack of knowledge or information).
ignorance
Also: unawareness
📝 In Action
Su ignorancia sobre el tema es evidente.
B1Their ignorance on the subject is obvious.
Actuó así por pura ignorancia, no por maldad.
B1He acted that way out of pure ignorance, not out of malice.
La ignorancia de la ley no excusa su cumplimiento.
B2Ignorance of the law does not excuse its fulfillment.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ignorancia
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the most common translation for 'ignorancia'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'ignorantia', which comes from 'ignarus' (not knowing). The prefix 'in-' means 'not' and 'gnarus' means 'aware' or 'knowing'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ignorancia' always a negative word?
Generally, yes, as it implies a lack of something (knowledge). However, it can be used neutrally in legal or scientific contexts to simply state that information is missing.
What is the difference between 'ignorancia' and 'desconocimiento'?
'Desconocimiento' is often softer and sounds more formal or technical, whereas 'ignorancia' can sometimes carry a slightly more judgmental tone depending on how it's said.
Does 'ignorar' always mean to 'ignore' someone?
Not exactly! In Spanish, 'ignorar' can mean both 'to disregard someone' AND 'to be unaware of something'. 'Ignorancia' specifically relates to the 'being unaware' side.