fontspdftexromansans-serifsymbols
How can I typeset a partial derivative symbol (∂) in an upright, sans-serif font?
I am using pdfLaTeX. I know this problem could be solved easily by switching to another engine — and feel free to post XeLaTeX or LuaLaTeX solutions for the benefit of posterity if you wish — but I am specifically looking for a solution within pdfLaTeX.
Edited to add an image to contrast what LaTeX generates with what I want:
a good and detailed answer can be found also here - although it's talking about web design, I think these are good guide lines also for printed documents: http://webdesign.about.com/od/fonts/a/aa080204.htm
It is a big difference. It depends on the tastes of Jörg Knappen who designed the European Modern fonts and apparently liked less heavy sans serif fonts.
With \usepackage{lmodern} you'll get the same weight.
Best Answer
Partial solution.