In graphic design, what is meant by "white space"?

White space, often referred to as negative space, is the area between elements in a layout that does not contain any text, images, or design elements. It serves a critical role in graphic design by improving readability, creating visual balance, and guiding the viewer's eye through the composition. By strategically utilizing white space, designers can highlight important elements and foster a more aesthetically pleasing layout. This space helps prevent overcrowding and enhances the overall clarity of the design.

While other options touch on aspects of blank areas or visual elements, they do not accurately capture the specific and strategic function of white space in a layout context. For instance, while empty graphics in digital media could imply a lack of content, it does not address the intentional use of space to improve design. Similarly, light background colors may enhance a design's look but do not embody the concept of white space itself, which is fundamentally about the intentional gaps between elements. Finally, categorizing all blank areas on a canvas fails to reflect the purpose and design principles behind white space, which is more focused on the relationship between elements rather than simply any unfilled portion of the design.