# readable

/ˈɹidəbəɫ/ (US) · /ɹˈiːdəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/readable
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

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

For teachers: characterised by a clear, engaging, or accessible style that facilitates easy consumption by a reader.

## Examples

- The author's latest novel is very readable.
- Even though the report covers a complex scientific topic, the author made it readable for a general audience.
- 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The handwriting is not readable." but "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.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.