Readable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
readable
[หriหdษbษl ]
Definitions
text
Easily read or understood; clear and easy to follow
Synonyms
comprehensible, intelligible, legible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| readable |
Suitable for text that is easy and pleasant to read, often used for books, articles, and any written material that should be enjoyable or easy to go through.
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| legible |
Specifically used for handwriting or printed text that is clear enough to read without difficulty.
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| comprehensible |
Used when something can be easily understood, particularly referring to language or content that is clear and makes sense.
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| intelligible |
Refers to speech or text that can be understood, particularly in situations where clarity is important, such as instructions or foreign language.
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Examples of usage
- The book is written in a very readable style.
- The instructions are presented in a readable format.
- The report needs to be more readable for a wider audience.
code
Capable of being executed and understood by a human rather than a computer
Synonyms
clear, human-readable, understandable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| readable |
Typically used to describe text or writing that is easy to read and understand. This can apply to books, articles, emails, or any other written material.
|
| understandable |
Used to describe something that is easy to comprehend, not limited to written text. This term can also be used to describe emotions or reactions that make sense in a given situation.
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| clear |
Used when describing anything, not just text, that is easy to understand, see, or hear. Can also refer to a person's speech or ideas.
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| human-readable |
Often used in technical or computing contexts to describe data or text that is formatted in a way understandable by humans, as opposed to machine-readable formats.
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Examples of usage
- The code needs to be more readable for easier maintenance.
- Improving readability will make debugging faster.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Readable prose often engages readers more effectively than complex, jargon-filled text.
- Famous authors like Ernest Hemingway are celebrated for their readable style, emphasizing clarity and simplicity.
- The readability of a text can greatly influence its popularity, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Psychology
- Studies show that readable content can enhance comprehension and retention in readers.
- The Flesch-Kincaid readability tests are tools used to measure how easy or difficult text is for readers of different ages.
- Readable materials are particularly important in educational settings, facilitating learning for diverse student populations.
Technology
- The rise of digital media has amplified the importance of readability, as users often skim online content.
- Web design emphasizes readable fonts and layouts to improve user experience and keep visitors engaged.
- Many content management systems now incorporate readability scores to help writers create clear and effective articles.
Design
- Designers often utilize principles of readability in typography, ensuring that fonts can be easily deciphered at various sizes.
- Contrast between text and background is crucial for readability, particularly in signage and printed materials.
- Accessibility guidelines stress the importance of readability, making sure content is available to everyone, including those with visual impairments.
Origin of 'readable'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in Old English 'rรฆdan', meaning 'to advise or counsel', which evolved into its current form.
- The suffix '-able' indicates capability, together suggesting something can be read.
- This term became prominent in the early 20th century, correlating with typesetting developments that focused on text clarity.
The word 'readable' originated from the verb 'read' combined with the suffix '-able,' which means 'capable of.' The term first appeared in the mid-19th century, emphasizing the quality of being easily read or understood. Over time, 'readable' has become a common term in various fields, from literature to technology, highlighting the importance of clarity and accessibility in communication.
See also: misread, misreading, nonreader, read, reader, readers, readership, readily, reading, ready.