Calligraphy: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe a highly artistic form of writing that is considered a visual art. Suitable for describing writing styles in special documents or artworks.

• The wedding invitations were beautifully decorated with elegant calligraphy.
• She spent years mastering the art of Chinese calligraphy.

General term used to describe the style or manner of a person's writing. Commonly used in everyday contexts.

• His handwriting is so messy, I can barely read it.
• Teachers often spend time helping students improve their handwriting.

Refers to the skill of writing by hand and is usually associated with neat and legible writing. Often used in educational or formal contexts.

• Good penmanship can make a big difference in how a note is perceived.
• The teacher praised her for her excellent penmanship.

Can refer to a style of writing or any particular system of writing. Often used in technical or artistic contexts. May also refer to handwriting in a more creative form.

• The ancient script was difficult to decipher.
• He writes in a beautiful script that looks almost like calligraphy.

used to describe the art of beautiful writing, often used for special occasions or art pieces.

• Her wedding invitations were decorated with elegant calligraphy
• The gallery displayed stunning pieces of calligraphy

refers to a particular style of writing but can also mean a written text for plays or movies. In context with writing, it often implies cursive or stylized writing.

• Medieval manuscripts often featured elaborate scripts
• The script for the play was written by a famous playwright

refers to the style or manner in which someone writes. This is often used in everyday contexts to describe regular written text.

• His handwriting is neat and easy to read
• Teachers often comment on the improvement of students' handwriting throughout the year

describes the skill or quality of someone's handwriting, often emphasizing neatness and legibility. This term can sometimes have an old-fashioned or formal tone.

• Good penmanship was once a valued skill in education
• Her penmanship was so beautiful that it looked almost like printed text

Typically refers to the skill or technique of beautiful and stylized writing, focusing on the artistry and form more than simple legibility.

• His calligraphy is admired by everyone who sees it.
• Learning calligraphy has taught me patience and precision.

Used to describe someone who creates attractive handwriting with an artistic flair. Often used for commercial purposes such as advertising, personalized gifts, and decor.

• The handwriting artist decorated the chalkboard with an intricate design for the cafe.
• Many businesses hire handwriting artists for their unique signage needs.

An older term often used to describe someone skilled in handwriting, particularly in a professional context. It can imply technical precision and skill.

• As a skilled penman, he was responsible for drafting important documents.
• In the 19th century, penmen played a crucial role in businesses where typed documents were uncommon.