Rivivälien

Rivivälit, also known as line spacing or leading, refers to the vertical space between lines of text. This spacing is a fundamental element of typography and layout, influencing readability and the overall aesthetic of a document. The term "leading" originates from the strips of lead that typesetters used to place between lines of metal type to increase the space.

In modern digital typography, line spacing is typically measured in points, similar to font size. A common default setting for line spacing is 120% of the font size, often referred to as "single spacing" in word processing software. "1.5 spacing" would be 150%, and "double spacing" would be 200%. Adjusting the line spacing can significantly impact how easily a reader can follow the text. Too little spacing can make text appear cramped and difficult to read, while too much can create large gaps that disrupt the flow.

The optimal line spacing depends on various factors, including the font style, font size, line length, and the intended audience. For instance, longer lines of text generally require more leading to maintain readability. Similarly, smaller font sizes may benefit from slightly increased leading. Designers and writers carefully consider rivivälit to ensure their content is both legible and visually appealing. In publishing, precise control over leading is crucial for creating professional and reader-friendly materials, from books and magazines to web pages and presentations.