Word
enlightened
Phoneticsen·light·ened, stress on the second syllable
US/ˌɛnˈɫaɪtənd/
UK/ɛnlˈaɪtənd/
Definitions
01wise and modern
C1 · Advanced Academic
adj. having a modern, fair, and wise way of thinking that is not based on old-fashioned ideas or prejudice.
adj. possessing or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook; free from ignorance or prejudice.
“The company has an enlightened policy on parental leave that supports all families.”
“The government's enlightened approach to urban planning prioritises green spaces and public transit over private vehicle infrastructure.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02spiritually aware
C2 · Proficiency Religion Formal
adj. having reached a state of great spiritual knowledge or peace, especially in religions like Buddhism.
adj. having attained a state of spiritual awakening or transcendence; often used in the context of Eastern philosophies.
“After years of meditation, the monk was considered an enlightened teacher.”
“The text describes the journey of an enlightened soul who has finally broken free from the cycle of worldly suffering.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Developing enlightened drug policy requires evidence of how the public understands drug use, the authors suggest.” “After Curtin suggested it showed due diligence “wasn’t particularly effective”, McInerney said: “I will add the point [that] I thought it was, but I’m happy to be enlightened”.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/enlightened