Legible describes text that is clear enough to be easily read.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Easy to read and understand visually.
- Refers to handwriting, print, or documents.
- Essential for clear communication and legal clarity.
Resumen
El adjetivo 'legible' proviene del latín 'legibilis' y describe la capacidad de un texto para ser descifrado sin esfuerzo. Es una cualidad esencial en la comunicación escrita, ya que garantiza que el mensaje sea recibido tal como fue redactado. 2) Patrones de uso: Se utiliza frecuentemente con verbos copulativos como 'ser' o 'resultar'. Por ejemplo, 'su letra es legible' o 'el documento resulta legible'. También puede aparecer en contextos negativos, como 'ilegible', para indicar que algo es imposible de entender. 3) Contextos comunes: Este término es omnipresente en el ámbito académico, administrativo y profesional. Es habitual escuchar que una firma debe ser legible, que una receta médica debe redactarse de forma legible o que un contrato debe tener una tipografía legible para evitar malentendidos legales. También se usa en contextos cotidianos al hablar de la letra manuscrita de un estudiante o de un cartel desgastado por el tiempo. 4) Comparación de palabras: A diferencia de 'claro', que es un término más amplio y puede referirse a la transparencia de una idea o de un objeto físico, 'legible' se restringe específicamente al acto de leer caracteres. Mientras que 'comprensible' se refiere a la lógica o al significado del contenido, 'legible' se enfoca puramente en la calidad visual o gráfica de las letras. Un texto puede ser legible (las letras se ven bien) pero no ser comprensible (el idioma es desconocido o el estilo es confuso).
Examples
Por favor, escribe con letra legible.
everydayPlease, write with legible handwriting.
El contrato debe ser impreso en un formato legible.
formalThe contract must be printed in a legible format.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
hacer legible
to make legible
mantener la legibilidad
to maintain legibility
Often Confused With
Refers to the logic or meaning of an idea. Something can be visually perfect but conceptually difficult to understand.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Legible is a neutral, formal adjective used primarily in descriptive contexts. It is most frequently paired with words related to 'letra' (handwriting) or 'texto' (text). It is not used to describe physical objects that are not written.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 'legible' with 'leíble'. While 'leíble' exists in some contexts, 'legible' is the standard adjective for visual clarity. Avoid using it to describe spoken language.
Tips
Check your handwriting clarity
If you are writing formal notes, ensure your letters are distinct. This makes your message legible and professional.
Avoid using illegible fonts
When designing documents, choose standard fonts. Fancy scripts may look nice but often become illegible in small sizes.
Legibility in legal documents
In many Spanish-speaking countries, legal contracts require a minimum font size to ensure they remain legible for all parties.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'legibilis', from the verb 'legere' (to read). It maintains the same root as 'lectura' and 'leer' in Spanish.
Cultural Context
In Spanish culture, having 'buena letra' (good handwriting) has historically been a sign of education and discipline, making the concept of 'legible' highly valued in schools and public offices.
Memory Tip
Think of the root 'leg' as in 'legend' or 'legal'. If something is legible, it is 'legal' or 'official' enough to be read clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, no son sinónimos. Ser legible se refiere a la claridad visual de las letras, mientras que ser comprensible se refiere a entender el significado o la lógica del mensaje.
El antónimo es ilegible. Se utiliza cuando la caligrafía es tan mala o el texto está tan deteriorado que es imposible descifrar su contenido.
Sí, se puede decir que un libro tiene una tipografía legible, lo cual significa que el tamaño y estilo de fuente son cómodos para la vista del lector.
Test Yourself
Completa la oración con la opción correcta.
La letra del médico era tan mala que el diagnóstico resultó ser ___.
El contexto indica que la letra era mala, por lo tanto, no se podía leer.
🎉 Score: /1
Summary
Legible describes text that is clear enough to be easily read.
- Easy to read and understand visually.
- Refers to handwriting, print, or documents.
- Essential for clear communication and legal clarity.
Check your handwriting clarity
If you are writing formal notes, ensure your letters are distinct. This makes your message legible and professional.
Avoid using illegible fonts
When designing documents, choose standard fonts. Fancy scripts may look nice but often become illegible in small sizes.
Legibility in legal documents
In many Spanish-speaking countries, legal contracts require a minimum font size to ensure they remain legible for all parties.
Examples
2 of 2Por favor, escribe con letra legible.
Please, write with legible handwriting.
El contrato debe ser impreso en un formato legible.
The contract must be printed in a legible format.
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