Legible

Legible describes writing or print that is clear enough to read. It implies that the characters are well-formed, the spacing is appropriate, and the ink or printing is of good quality, allowing the reader to easily decipher the text. The opposite of legible writing would be something that is difficult or impossible to read, whether due to poor handwriting, smudging, fading, or stylistic choices that obscure the text. The degree of legibility is subjective and can depend on factors such as the reader's eyesight, familiarity with the script, and the context in which the text appears. For a document to be considered 'legible', it should communicate its contents without causing the reader undue strain or requiring repeated attempts to understand individual words or letters. Essentially, legibility focuses on readability and ease of comprehension.

Legible meaning with examples

• The doctor's prescription was barely legible, requiring the pharmacist to spend several minutes deciphering the almost indecipherable scribbles. She had to call the doctor's office to confirm the medication and dosage. This near miss highlights the critical importance of a doctor's handwriting, or lack thereof, affecting patient care.
• The faded inscription on the old tombstone was only partially legible. Years of weather and erosion had taken their toll. The historian painstakingly brushed away loose dirt with a soft brush, attempting to reveal more of the names and dates that might unlock clues to the past. This required much patience.
• After the printer malfunctioned, the report had to be reprinted because the first version was rendered illegible due to blurred ink and inconsistent spacing. The manager emphasized the importance of clear and professional documents in representing the company. Correct formatting ensured that no errors were made.
• Despite her shaky hands, the elderly woman took great care to make her letters legible when writing to her grandchildren. She knew they would cherish her messages, and she wanted to make it easy for them to read. The effort showed her enduring affection.