Is 'ignorant' mostly used as an insult, or is it widely used in a technical sense as well?

Question

or is the technical sense an insult? Is it a choice or simply a lack of imput? I'm thinking the insult doesn't lie with the blame, but some people get ToUchY.

Answer 1

I would not want you to be ignorant of the fact that most people consider the word an insult. Einstein handled it, when asked how many cups in a pint. He replied, "I do not clutter my mind with such. That information can be obtained from any dictionary."

It is not a good word to use, because often feelings are hurt and people are offended. Touchy, I like that word. Have fun!

Answer 2

Well, most people are insulted at being called "ignorant" rather it is taken as being true by definition or not.
Depending on the situation though, clearly there are times when the term "ignorant" could certainly be used with no negative interpretations.
People often just don't like being told that they don't know enough about any particular subject to be able to converse intelligently about it, or whatever

Answer 3

Ignorant is not knowing the facts, it isn't an insult intended, but it is a an insult taken.
If you don't know, you aren't dumb, you are uninformed.
If you get the information you need, you are informed and part of this.
Dave

Answer 4

As I've explained to my daughter, 'ignorant' just means not knowing at all. Because it's used in a pejorative, demeaning manner, we wouldn't use the word in the company of someone who, misunderstanding, could get their feelings hurt. We'd say they're 'unaware' or 'haven't learned yet'. Empathy and respect for other's feelings are acts of love.

Answer 5

I think the latter on both counts. Examples of usage as an objective state of being are: "I remain *ignorant* of any evidence to the contrary;" "Such-and-such seems mainly *ignorant* of any alternatives she may possess..." So it depends upon the context. Good luck!