It can vary depending on the context, but essentially it just means that you can only read/write at a fairly basic level.
For instance, imagine someone who reads at a 4th grade reading level. They can get through basic aspects of life, but get totally lost/overwhelmed if they are presented with anything more complex. For instance, they wouldn’t be able to comprehend most official letters. (Thus is especially an issue in Germany since Amtsdeutsch seemingly tries to be intentionally complex…)
They are effectively locked out of most modern jobs, because they can’t parse emails effectively or formulate a fitting reply.
It’s also something that people are generally very self-conscious about and get pretty good at hiding.
Interesting, thanks for clearing that up. Wouldn’t have thought that this is so common but then again I’m living in a bubble where I mostly know well educated people.
It can vary depending on the context, but essentially it just means that you can only read/write at a fairly basic level.
For instance, imagine someone who reads at a 4th grade reading level. They can get through basic aspects of life, but get totally lost/overwhelmed if they are presented with anything more complex. For instance, they wouldn’t be able to comprehend most official letters. (Thus is especially an issue in Germany since Amtsdeutsch seemingly tries to be intentionally complex…)
They are effectively locked out of most modern jobs, because they can’t parse emails effectively or formulate a fitting reply.
It’s also something that people are generally very self-conscious about and get pretty good at hiding.
Interesting, thanks for clearing that up. Wouldn’t have thought that this is so common but then again I’m living in a bubble where I mostly know well educated people.