Readably: meaning, definitions and examples
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readably
[ ˈriːdəblɪ ]
ease of reading
Readably describes the quality of being easy to read. It describes text that is clear and accessible, making it comfortable for the reader to comprehend. This term can apply to written works ranging from literature to technical documentation. When something is written readably, it tends to have a straightforward structure and language that aids understanding.
Synonyms
clearly, intelligibly, legibly
Examples of usage
- The author's writing style is very readably, attracting a wide audience.
- This manual is readably structured for beginners.
- The article was written in a readably way, ensuring everyone could follow the points made.
- She revised her essay to make it more readably.
Word origin
The term 'readably' is derived from the word 'read', which comes from the Old English 'rǣdan', meaning 'to advise, counsel, or interpret'. The adverb form 'readably' was formed by adding '-ably' to the base 'read', in accordance with English morphological patterns. The evolution of the word reflects the development of reading as a fundamental skill in communication and literacy. Throughout history, as literature and written communication evolved, so did the need for texts to be accessible to a broad audience. Thus, the concept of 'readability' became essential, influencing education, publishing, and the ways information is presented to ensure clarity and ease of understanding. Over time, the focus on how 'readable' a text is has become increasingly important, especially in academic and professional contexts where clarity is paramount.