ENGLISH
REFERENCE

readable

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹidəbəɫ// UK //ɹˈiːdəbəl// read·able

adj. easy or pleasant to read because the writing is clear or the story is interesting.

adj. characterised by a clear, engaging, or accessible style that facilitates easy consumption by a reader.


SIMPLE

The author's latest novel is very readable.

CONTEXTUAL

Even though the report covers a complex scientific topic, the author made it readable for a general audience.

COMPLEX

The biographer manages to turn a dense collection of historical archives into a highly readable narrative that captures the subject's personality without sacrificing academic rigour.

Synonyms
Origin

From read + -able.

Usage

Often used to praise non-fiction that avoids overly technical jargon.

Pitfall

The handwriting is not readable.The handwriting is not legible.Use 'legible' for the physical clarity of writing or print; use 'readable' for the quality and enjoyment of the prose style.

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