Sans: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in typography to refer to a type of font that does not have the small projecting features called 'serifs' at the end of strokes. It is short for 'sans-serif.'

• The designer chose a sans font for a modern look.
• Arial is a popular sans typeface.

Commonly used in design and typography to refer specifically to fonts without serifs, the small lines or strokes regularly attached to the end of a larger stroke in a letter or symbol. It's a formal term compared to 'sans.'

• Helvetica is a sans-serif typeface widely used in advertising.
• For digital readability, sans-serif fonts are often preferred.

Used to describe something that is straightforward and not decorated or adorned. It often refers to an appearance or style that lacks details or embellishments.

• She wore a plain dress without any patterns.
• The wall was plain and white.

Used to describe something that is easy to understand or do, and not complicated. This can refer to anything from design to instructions or tasks.

• The instructions were simple and easy to follow.
• She prefers a simple design for her website.

It is the same word as the previous entry. The form and context are identical. Used in artistic, literary, or formal contexts, borrowing from French for an elegant or old-fashioned touch.

• The text was written in a medieval style, sans vowels.
• He entered the meeting sans any documents.

Commonly used in everyday conversations and writing. It is straightforward and practical for all contexts.

• She went to the store without a list.
• They managed to fix the problem without any help.