Translation guide
The area that can be seen when looking straight ahead. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 視界 (shikai), but other terms like 視野 (shiya) and 視角 (shikaku) are used in specific contexts. This guide helps you choose the right word depending on whether you mean literal visual field, metaphorical perspective, or technical angle of view.
The area you can see without moving your eyes or head.
The most common and general word for 'field of vision' in everyday contexts. Used for what is visible to a person at a given moment.
Often overlaps with 視界, but can imply a slightly broader or more conscious scope of vision. Also used metaphorically (see next meaning).
My field of vision narrows.
The range of things you consider, know about, or are aware of; mental or intellectual scope.
The standard word for 'field of vision' in a metaphorical sense, such as broadening one's horizons or having a narrow perspective.
Studying abroad broadened my horizons.
He has a narrow outlook.
Can also be used metaphorically, but less common than 視野 for abstract perspectives. Often implies what is within one's immediate awareness or attention.
The angular extent of the observable world seen at any given moment, used in science, photography, and displays.
Specifically 'viewing angle' or 'angle of view'. Used for screens, cameras, and optical instruments.
This monitor has a wide viewing angle.
Means 'visual angle' in optics and psychology. More technical than 視野角.
In technical contexts, can refer to the field of view of a camera or optical device, but 視野 or 視野角 are more precise.
The entire area that can be seen when the eyes are fixed, including peripheral vision; used in eye exams and neurology.
The standard medical term for 'visual field'. Used in phrases like 視野検査 (visual field test).
I had a visual field test.
Glaucoma causes visual field loss.
Sometimes used in general medical descriptions, but 視野 is more precise for clinical contexts.
視界 (shikai) is the most common word for 'field of vision' in everyday situations, focusing on what is currently visible. 視野 (shiya) is often used for a broader or more abstract scope, including metaphorical perspectives and medical visual fields. In many contexts they are interchangeable, but 視野 is preferred for intellectual breadth and clinical settings.
The English phrase 'field of vision' is often used metaphorically (e.g., 'broaden your field of vision'). In Japanese, 視野 (shiya) is the natural choice for this, not a literal translation like 視覚の分野.
The driver's field of vision was blocked by the truck.
Traveling really expands your field of vision.
New information came into my field of awareness.
Size perception changes depending on the visual angle.
Please do not obstruct the camera's field of view.
My vision is blurry after the accident.