legible

Definitions

leg (read) + -ible (able to be) = able to be read. This is the purest 'read' branch of legere: legible handwriting is writing you can actually decipher. Don't confuse it with eligible (able to be chosen) or readable (interesting to read, not just decipherable).

Example Sentences

• 1.

  His handwriting is barely legible, even to himself.

• 2.

  Please write the address in clear, legible letters.

• 3.

  The old inscription was still just legible after centuries.

Easily Confused

legible vs readable: legible is about the physical clarity of letters (can your eyes make them out?); readable is about whether the content is easy or enjoyable to read. Neat handwriting is legible; a well-written book is readable.