Translation guide
A lens or tool used to make things look larger. In Japanese, the most common word is 虫眼鏡 (mushimegane), but other terms exist for specific contexts.
虫眼鏡
magnifying glass
A handheld lens for examining small objects or reading fine print.
The standard, everyday word for a magnifying glass. Literally 'bug glasses', but used for any magnifying lens.
虫眼鏡で小さな文字を読んだ。
I read the small text with a magnifying glass.
この虫眼鏡は倍率が高い。
This magnifying glass has high magnification.
From German 'Lupe'. Often used for jeweler's loupes, watchmaker's loupes, or small high-quality magnifiers. Slightly more technical feel.
宝石をルーペで観察する。
Examine gems with a loupe.
Literally 'magnifying mirror/lens'. More formal or technical term, used in product names or descriptions.
拡大鏡付きのスタンドミラーを買った。
I bought a stand mirror with a magnifying mirror.
Referring to the icon or concept of a magnifying glass, often in UI or metaphorical contexts.
Even in digital contexts, 虫眼鏡 is the common term for the magnifying glass icon.
検索ボックスの横に虫眼鏡のアイコンがある。
There is a magnifying glass icon next to the search box.
For almost all everyday situations, 虫眼鏡 is the best choice. It's understood by everyone and doesn't sound childish or technical.
Sometimes used in formal UI descriptions, but 虫眼鏡 is more natural.
拡大鏡のアイコンをクリックしてください。
Please click the magnifying glass icon.