Ignorance is no excuse Meaning in English

expression

US

IG-nur-ens iz noh ik-SKYOOS

UK

IG-nuh-ruhnss iz noh ik-SKYOOS

Definition

This expression means that not knowing about a rule or law does not free you from responsibility if you break it. It is often used in legal or ethical discussions.

Usage & Nuances

Formal and commonly used in legal or official contexts. Implies personal responsibility regardless of a lack of knowledge. Sometimes rephrased as 'ignorance of the law is no excuse.' Not typically used in casual conversation.

• Spanish: la ignorancia no es excusa
• Portuguese (BR): a ignorância não é desculpa
• Portuguese (PT): a ignorância não é desculpa
• Chinese (Simplified): 无知不是借口
• Chinese (Traditional): 無知不是藉口
• Hindi: अज्ञान कोई बहाना नहीं है
• Arabic: الجهل ليس عذراً
• Bengali: অজ্ঞতা কোন অজুহাত নয়
• Russian: незнание не является оправданием
• Japanese: 無知は言い訳にならない
• Vietnamese: không biết không phải là lý do
• Korean: 무지가 면죄부가 되지 않는다
• Turkish: cehalet mazeret değildir
• Urdu: جہالت کوئی عذر نہیں ہے
• Indonesian: ketidaktahuan bukan alasan

Example Sentences

Ignorance is no excuse if you break the law.

basic

The teacher said, 'Ignorance is no excuse' for not doing your homework.

basic

You should have learned the rules; ignorance is no excuse.

basic

The judge reminded everyone that ignorance is no excuse when it comes to following the law.

natural

You can't just say you didn't know—ignorance is no excuse in this situation.

natural

I've told you before: ignorance is no excuse, so make sure to ask if you're unsure.

natural