There are several terms used to describe a person who pretends to be ignorant, depending on the context and intention behind their actions.
Feigning Ignorance
- Ignoramus: This term refers to someone who is simply ignorant or uninformed. While it can be used to describe someone who pretends to be ignorant, it primarily refers to someone who genuinely lacks knowledge.
- Play Dumb: This phrase implies a deliberate attempt to avoid responsibility or appear less threatening by pretending not to understand something. It often suggests a manipulative tactic.
- Innocent: This term suggests an absence of knowledge or understanding, often associated with youthfulness or naivety. While it can be used to describe someone who pretends to be innocent, it primarily refers to someone who genuinely lacks experience.
- Dummy: This word is often used to describe someone who is perceived as foolish or lacking intelligence. It can be used to describe someone who pretends to be ignorant, but it is generally considered an insult.
Other Terms
- Pretender: This term suggests that someone is putting on a false front, pretending to be something they are not. It can be used to describe someone who pretends to be ignorant.
- Deceiver: This term implies that someone is intentionally misleading others, often for their own benefit. It can be used to describe someone who pretends to be ignorant to gain an advantage.
The specific term used will depend on the situation and the person's motivations. For example, a child might play dumb to avoid getting into trouble, while a politician might feign ignorance to avoid answering a difficult question.
