Literówka

Literówka is a Polish term for a typographical error, typically a wrong letter or a missing diacritic introduced during typing or handwriting. It denotes a small slip at the level of letters rather than a broader mistake in meaning, grammar, or syntax. In everyday writing, literówki are common in informal texts and can be corrected by proofreading or spell checking.

Etymology and nuance: From litera ('letter') with the diminutive suffix -ówka; the word emphasizes a minor letter-level fault. It often contrasts with more substantial orthographic errors or lexical mistakes. In common usage, literówka is used to describe inadvertent slips such as omitting diacritics, mispressing a key, or transposing letters.

Common forms and examples: Omitting diacritics is a frequent type, for instance świat written as swiat, góra as gora, język as jezyk, or błękitny as blekitny. Substituting neighboring keys can also produce literówki, such as typing dok instead of dom. Some literówki can change meaning, especially in technical terms or proper nouns, which may lead to miscommunication if not corrected.

Impact and correction: In formal writing, literówki are discouraged and subject to correction during editing. Editors and writers rely on proofreading, spell checkers, and style guides to reduce them. Digital tools and word processors with Polish language support help detect many literówki, though they are not foolproof; careful reading and slower typing remain important for accuracy.

See also: Typo, orthography, proofreading, Polish diacritics.