block letter

/'blɔk'letə/

Thân thiện

A child carefully draws a block letter A on a piece of paper.

Definition

Noun: 1. A plain, capital letter, typically drawn or printed without serifs and not joined to other letters: A block letter is a simple, upright letterform, usually a capital, that is clearly separated from adjacent letters. It is the style of lettering commonly used in printing, official forms, and for clarity. 2. A style of handwriting where each letter is written separately and clearly, often in capitals: This refers to writing by hand in a style that imitates printed capital letters, ensuring each character is distinct and unconnected.

Usage

The term "block letter" is used to request or describe writing that is extremely clear and legible, avoiding cursive script. It is often required on official documents, applications, and forms.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Please fill out the form in block letters. (This is a common instruction on documents.)
  • The sign was painted with large, red block letters.
  • For clarity, write your address in block capitals. ("Block capitals" is a common synonym in this context.)

Advanced Usage

• "In block letters": This is the standard prepositional phrase used to describe the style of writing.
  • The instructions said, "Name and address in block letters."

Variants and Related Words

• Block capitals (n. phrase): This is a very common synonym, especially in British English, meaning capital letters written in a clear, separated style.
• Print (v.): As a verb, "print" is often used to mean "write in block letters."
  • "Please print your name below the signature."
• Uppercase (adj.): Refers to capital letters (A, B, C) as opposed to lowercase (a, b, c). Block letters are typically uppercase.

Synonyms

• Capital letter
• Majuscule (a more technical term, primarily used in typography and paleography)
• Printed letter (when referring to handwriting)

Antonyms

• Cursive (n./adj.): Writing where the letters are joined together.
• Script (n.): Handwriting that is flowing and often joined.
• Lowercase letter (n.): A small letter (a, b, c).

Related Phrases

• Fill in block capitals: A standard instruction on forms.
• Legible block lettering: Emphasizes the primary purpose of the style—clarity and ease of reading.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a plain hand-drawn letter

Từ đồng nghĩa

• block capital