Ligature: Joined Letter Pairs in Typography
A ligature is a single glyph that replaces two or more characters, for example “fi” or “fl”, to improve spacing, readability, or style.
Ligatures can prevent awkward collisions, close ugly gaps, and make text feel smoother. Modern fonts often include standard ligatures by default, plus optional decorative ligatures for display use.
Example: In some fonts, the “f” and “i” overlap visually. The “fi” ligature replaces them with one unified shape so the dot and the “f” hook do not crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard ligatures (like “fi”, “fl”) improve readability and are usually safe in body text. Discretionary ligatures are decorative and should be used mainly in headlines or branding, where style matters more than strict neutrality.
Usually no, because they are a typographic substitution at render time. In some workflows, exporting text as outlines or using certain PDF settings can reduce searchability. Keep text live when you need selectable, searchable content.
Turn them off for UI labels with tight spacing, technical strings, code, product SKUs, and any context where character shapes must stay literal, predictable, and easy to scan.
No. Kerning adjusts spacing between specific letter pairs. A ligature replaces the pair with a different glyph. They can work together.
Custom ligatures can create a unique wordmark rhythm, reduce gaps, and build a recognizable silhouette. Use them deliberately and test legibility at small sizes.
No. Many modern fonts include at least basic ones, but not all. Display fonts might include lots of discretionary ligatures, while some utilitarian fonts include none.
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