1. A lack of the ability to read and to write: It cannot be underestimated that illiteracy is not only prevalent among the younger generation, but also found in adults who have chosen ways to hide this handicap.

June found it most difficult to find a job in shops or stores because of her illiteracy and not being able to decipher the writing on the packages she would have to place on the shelves for the customers.
2. The circumstance of not having any or enough education: Jim was told that the mistakes he made in writing or speaking were the results his illiteracy.

Is there such a thing as "functional illiteracy"?: illiteracy quotes.