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.
He is blind in both eyes.
Please open both eyes.
Literally 'both of the eyes'. Grammatically correct but less idiomatic than 両目. Used for emphasis or clarity.
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.
Please look with both eyes.
He can't wink with both eyes.
More technical/medical term for 'both eyes'. Used in formal contexts like ophthalmology.
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'.
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.
To examine binocular vision function.