blissful ignorance

[ blis-fuhl ig-ner-uhns ]

noun

1. the condition of being unaware, and often choosing to remain unaware, of complex issues, negative circumstances, etc., that might be distressing:

   Many people likely have hypertension and don't know it, living out their lives in blissful ignorance.

   To assume a stance of blissful ignorance about abuses in our own institution is nothing short of cowardice.

Other Words From

• bliss·ful·ly ig·no·rant [blis, -f, uh, l-ee , ig, -ner-, uh, nt], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of blissful ignorance¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

Only so mature, though; one theme of the novel is that some industries are determined to sustain a level of blissful ignorance and powerlessness.

From Los Angeles Times

Our solution: I pay the bill, he never sees it, and he enjoys a blissful ignorance.

From Washington Post

“I enjoy speaking in school and helping old people at the nursing home — it keeps me fit,” Gorban said with a cheeky smile and in blissful ignorance of the fact that she’s turning 90 in August.

From Seattle Times

“I enjoy speaking in school and helping old people at the nursing home - it keeps me fit,” Gorban said with a cheeky smile and in blissful ignorance of the fact that she’s turning 90 in August.

From Washington Times

“Oh, yes! You’re a hunter. Of course Levi would be a temptation. It wasn’t a smart move to seek me out first thing, though. I’d never heard of you before and would have proceeded in blissful ignorance, but your visit made me curious. I did some research to find out who you are. You’re not a very popular guy, are you?”

From Slate