# unreadable

/ˈənˈɹidəbəɫ/ (US) · /ʌnɹˈiːdəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unreadable
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

so messy, small, or unclear that you cannot read it. You use it for handwriting, books, or screens that are too hard to follow.

For teachers: impossible or extremely difficult to read or decipher due to poor handwriting, damage, small print, or overly complex style. Extends from physical legibility to stylistic obscurity.

## Examples

- His handwriting is so messy that it is unreadable.
- The rain smeared the ink on the note, so the address is unreadable.
- After decades in the damp archive, the captain's log had become faded and unreadable except for a few dates in the margins.

## Synonyms

illegible, indecipherable

## Antonyms

legible, readable

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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.