When writing my previous blog posts I've been confused about when to use the word typeface, and when to use font. What is the difference? Those of you who took typography last year may already know, but if not I found a helpful paragraph that explains the distinct meanings of the two words. The book proposes that although the words are commonly used synonymously the distinction between the two is arguably more important now that they occupy the same space i.e. the digital space.
A typeface is a combination of characters, letters, numbers, symbols, punctuation and other marks that share a similar design. A font was traditionally something physical, such as lithographic film or metal type characters (pictured below).
Source:
The Fundamentals of Graphic Design - digital book, segments available free on Safari Books Online
Authors: Gavin Ambrose and Paul Harris
Date of Publication: 2008
Accessed: 9 April 2013
This was actually something i've been meaning to ask Rebecca in typography! But that paragraph above does help alot! It's interesting because now if i look back at some book work and research i've done, i could possibly have used the word "typeface" when i should have.
ReplyDeleteKrupa
Ive been meaning to ask this aswell! I thought i was just really dumb for not knowing but never thought about it enough to google it. Thanks for the heads up Melanie!
ReplyDelete- Brittnee