French Phrase
Écris en lettres d'imprimerie pour que ce soit plus lisible.
Meaning
This phrase is used to request that someone use print characters rather than cursive handwriting. It combines an imperative command with a purpose clause using the subjunctive mood to explain the reason for the request.
When to use
Use this when you are struggling to read someone's handwriting or when giving instructions for filling out a form. It is appropriate in both casual and professional contexts where clarity is essential.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Écrisen lettres d'imprimeriepour quece soitplus lisible
L'impératif (Écris)
This is the imperative form of 'écrire' used for the 'tu' form. Note that for -re verbs, we keep the 's' at the end.
Le Subjonctif (soit)
The phrase 'pour que' (so that) always triggers the subjunctive mood because it expresses an intention or a goal.
🗨In Conversation
Je n'arrive pas à lire ton nom sur ce formulaire.
I can't read your name on this form.
Désolé, je vais l'écrire en lettres d'imprimerie pour que ce soit plus lisible.
Sorry, I will write it in block letters so that it is more legible.
✕Common Mistakes
Écris en lettres d'imprimerie pour ce soit plus lisible.
Use 'pour que' instead of 'pour' when followed by a subject and a verb.
Écris en lettres d'imprimerie pour que ce est plus lisible.
The conjunction 'pour que' requires the subjunctive mood ('soit'), not the indicative ('est').
↔Alternatives
Écris en majuscules.
Write in capital letters.
Utilise des caractères d'imprimerie.
Use print characters.
Cultural Tip
In French schools, students are traditionally taught cursive ('écriture cursive' or 'attachée') early on. Consequently, adult handwriting can sometimes be difficult to decipher, making the request for 'lettres d'imprimerie' common on official documents and applications.