Readable

ˈriːdəb(ə)l

adjectivemedium🔥Very CommonQuality
2 meanings3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

Capable of being read easily; of sufficient interest or clarity to be read easily.

ˈriːdəb(ə)l

adjectivepositivemedium
Quality

Easy and enjoyable to read.

The instructions are written in a readable format.

💡 Simply: Imagine a book that's so good, you can't stop reading it! That book is 'readable' because the words are clear and the story is interesting.

👶 For kids: When something is readable, it means it's easy and fun to read, like a good storybook!

More Examples

2

She chose the book because it had a readable style.

3

The teacher made the lesson more readable by using visuals.

How It's Used

Literature

"The author's readable prose makes the book a joy to read."

Technical Writing

"Clear and readable documentation is essential for users."

2

Capable of being read.

ˈriːdəb(ə)l

adjectiveneutralBeginner
Quality

Capable of being read; legible.

The doctor's handwriting was barely readable.

💡 Simply: If you can look at something and actually *see* the words clearly, it is 'readable'. It's like when you can easily see your friend's handwriting.

👶 For kids: When something is readable, it means you can see the letters and words and know what they say!

More Examples

2

Ensure the font size is readable on the presentation slides.

3

The old manuscript was surprisingly readable after being restored.

How It's Used

General

"Is the handwriting on this document readable?"

Tip:If you can READ it, it's readable!

Synonyms & Antonyms

From Middle English *redable*, from Old English *rǣdlic* ('capable of being read'), equivalent to read + -able.

The word 'readable' has been used in the English language since the 16th century, evolving in meaning with the changing methods and context of literacy.

Memory tip

Think of a book you can't put down; it's easy to READ and enjoyable.

Word Origin

LanguageOld English
Original meaning

"capable of being read"

readable formatreadable textreadable stylereadable proseeasily readable

Common misspellings

readiblereadabelreadble

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written