literate

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. having knowledge or skills in a specific area, like computers or science.

adj. demonstrating competence or knowledge in a specific area of expertise. Often used in compound forms like 'computer-literate'.

“In today's job market, it is essential to be digitally literate.”

“The modern workforce must be financially literate to navigate the complexities of private pension schemes and investment options.”

C1 · Advanced Literary

adj. having read many books and knowing a lot about literature.

adj. possessing a high degree of culture or learning, especially regarding literature and the arts.

“He was a highly literate man who could quote poetry from memory.”

“Her prose is remarkably literate, filled with subtle allusions to classical mythology and nineteenth-century philosophy.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Formal

n. a person who has the ability to read and write.

n. a person who is able to read and write. Often used in the plural when discussing demographic groups.

“The census showed a sharp increase in the number of literates in the region.”

“The transition from a society of oral tradition to one of literates fundamentally altered how legal contracts were enforced.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Religion Archaic · Technical

n. a person in the past who was educated but did not have a university degree.

n. a person who was educated but had not taken a university degree, particularly in the context of candidates for holy orders.

“In the 19th century, a literate could still be ordained in some dioceses.”

“The bishop was known for his willingness to ordain literates, provided they demonstrated sufficient theological understanding despite their lack of a formal degree.”