What does legibly mean?
Legibly is an adverb meaning in a way that is clear enough to be read or deciphered. It is commonly used with writing, printing, signs, labels, notices, and other material whose appearance affects whether people can understand it. Saying that a signature is legible means it can be identified from its visible form, while saying that instructions are written legibly emphasizes that the words are sufficiently clear to read. The word can suggest careful presentation or deliberate effort, but it does not necessarily imply that the content is simple, interesting, or persuasive. Although legibility is primarily a matter of visual clarity, the word is sometimes extended to information that is presented in a readily understandable way. Legibly is useful when precision matters, especially in formal instructions, legal documents, public signage, education, and correspondence, where unclear writing may cause practical difficulties.
adverbIn a way that is clear enough to be read or deciphered. It describes writing, printing, display, or the performance of an action in which the result can be readily understood visually.
- In a clear and readable manner; so that the meaning or content can easily be deciphered.
"The sign was written clearly and legibly so that passing motorists could read it."
"She rewrote the address legibly on the back of the envelope."
"The legal notice must be displayed legibly and in a conspicuous place."
Legibly keeps the original idea of reading alive: its Latin root, legere, literally meant “to read.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does legibly come from?
Legibly is an English adverb formed from legible with the suffix -ly. Legible comes from Latin legibilis, meaning “readable,” which is based on legere, “to read, gather, or collect.” The negative form illegible and related words such as legibility continue to reflect this same Latin heritage.
How legibly is actually used
This is a neutral, relatively formal word. It is especially common in contexts involving handwriting, printed information, signs, or documents, and it emphasizes visual clarity rather than the depth of understanding a reader may achieve.
Easily confused with legibly
Legible is an adjective describing something that can be read clearly, whereas legibly is an adverb describing the manner in which something is written, printed, or displayed.