Translation guide
In Japanese, 'both eyes' is most naturally expressed with the noun 両目 (りょうめ). The phrase 両方の目 (りょうほうのめ) is also possible but less common. When describing actions or states involving both eyes, specific verbs and adjectives are used.
The speaker wants to refer to both eyes, for example when talking about vision, appearance, or medical conditions.
The most common and natural way to say 'both eyes'. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
彼は両目が見えない。
He is blind in both eyes.
両目を開けてください。
Please open both eyes.
Literally 'both of the eyes'. Grammatically correct but less idiomatic than 両目. Used for emphasis or clarity.
両方の目がかゆい。
Both of my eyes are itchy.
The speaker wants to describe an action done with both eyes, such as winking, blinking, or seeing.
Pattern meaning 'to do something with both eyes'. Use the particle で to indicate the means.
両目で見てください。
Please look with both eyes.
彼は両目でウインクできない。
He can't wink with both eyes.
More technical/medical term for 'both eyes'. Used in formal contexts like ophthalmology.
両眼視機能を検査する。
To examine binocular vision function.
The speaker wants to use an idiom involving both eyes, such as 'keep an eye on' or 'cry one's eyes out'.
Idiom meaning 'to open one's eyes wide (in surprise)'. Literally 'to make both eyes like plates'.
彼は両目を皿のようにして驚いた。
He opened his eyes wide in surprise.
While 両方 (りょうほう) means 'both', it is not always natural to combine it with 目. The compound 両目 is the standard way to say 'both eyes'. Using 両方の目 is acceptable but can sound slightly wordy.