Translation guide
How to talk about eyeglasses in Japanese, from the object itself to related actions and expressions.
eyeglasses
Referring to the physical item worn on the face to correct vision.
The most common and neutral word for eyeglasses. Can be written in kanji, hiragana, or katakana (メガネ).
I bought new eyeglasses.
Who is the person wearing glasses?
Katakana version, often used in casual writing or for stylistic effect. Same meaning as 眼鏡.
Where did I put my glasses?
Hiragana version, common in informal writing or when avoiding kanji.
I forgot my glasses.
Describing the action of having glasses on one's face.
Specifying different kinds of eyeglasses.
Sunglasses. A common loanword.
Sunglasses are essential in summer.
Reading glasses (for presbyopia).
Prescription glasses. Literally 'glasses with a degree/prescription'.
I had my prescription glasses remade.
Talking about items associated with glasses.
Discussing eyesight and lens strength.
Expressions using 'glasses' metaphorically.
To view with prejudice or bias. Literally 'to see through colored glasses'.
He always looks at people through tinted glasses (i.e., with prejudice).
Glasses are counted using the counter 本 (ほん) for long objects, or sometimes 個 (こ) in casual speech.
I have two pairs of glasses.
I need new glasses.
He looks good in glasses.
My father uses reading glasses to read the newspaper.
このフレームは軽くて丈夫です。
These frames are light and sturdy.
My eyesight got worse, so I got glasses.