Under-informed

Lacking sufficient or necessary information about a particular topic, subject, or situation; not having been provided with enough details or facts to make a sound judgment, decision, or understanding. This can result from a lack of access to information, misinformation, or a failure to seek out relevant details. The consequences of being under-informed can range from making minor errors to suffering significant harm or making crucial errors that have far-reaching effects. Individuals, groups, or even systems can all be considered under-informed.

Under-informed meaning with examples

• The jury was under-informed about the defendant's past, hindering their ability to assess the potential motives behind the alleged crime. Without the relevant background information, the jurors struggled to make an impartial judgment, demonstrating a critical need for a more thorough presentation of the evidence. This lack of knowledge severely influenced their ability to evaluate the case fairly.
• Before investing in the volatile stock market, it's crucial not to be under-informed; researching market trends and company performance is essential. Many investors, lacking this preliminary data, make impulsive decisions that expose them to significant financial risk. A lack of due diligence regarding industry news, company financials, and general market analysis can lead to severe investment losses.
• The public became increasingly under-informed regarding the dangers of industrial pollution; years of data demonstrating the toxicity was not released. This suppressed knowledge contributed to complacency and a disregard for regulations designed to prevent environmental disasters. As a result, many communities continued to live in unsafe conditions, unaware of the significant health risks they faced daily.
• The doctor felt that the patient was significantly under-informed regarding the potential side effects and risks involved with the new medical treatment. He clarified the complexity of the procedure, explaining the importance of understanding all relevant aspects prior to consenting, in the case of the patient not understanding the impact. Consent was delayed until a complete and understandable disclosure took place.