14 Graphic Design Terms That Most Designers Get Wrong

Most amateur designers don’t know the difference between a font and a typeface. They use the two terms interchangeably. A font is the variation of weights (bold, italic, thin) of a typeface. A typeface is a family of fonts, like Arial, Helvetica, Bebas, etc.

Another example is the usage of the terms ‘color’ and ‘hue’. Color is an all-encompassing word referring to a hue, shade, tint and tone. Whereas, hue is the purest form of color – one without tint (addition of white) or shade (addition of black).

Zillion Designs has created a brilliant infographic that explains the differences between 14 commonly used design terms that most novice designers get wrong. Check it out below.

1. Font vs. Typeface

2. Tracking vs. Kerning

3. Gradient vs. Gradient Mesh

4. Backdrop vs. Background

5. EPS vs. AI file format

AI
1. Smaller in size, making it efficient for storage and sharing.
2. Primarily vector-based, ensuring scalability without loss of quality.
3. Offers ease of editing with Adobe Illustrator, its native application.
4. Limited compatibility, best suited for use within Adobe software.

EPS
1. Generally larger file size due to its capability to include both raster and vector elements.
2. Versatile, supporting a mix of raster and vector graphics for comprehensive design solutions.
3. Broad compatibility, allowing use across different programs beyond Adobe’s ecosystem.
4. Enhanced flexibility, catering to a wide range of printing and design requirements.