Translation guide
The English word 'short-sighted' has two main meanings: a literal visual condition (myopia) and a figurative meaning describing a lack of foresight. This guide helps learners express both naturally in Japanese.
Describing a person, decision, or plan that fails to consider future consequences.
Describing the inability to see distant objects clearly.
The standard medical term for myopia or near-sightedness.
While 近視眼的 can be used figuratively, directly translating 'short-sighted' as 近視 in a figurative context will sound like you are talking about eyesight. Use 近視眼的 or the other phrases above for the metaphorical meaning.
The most direct equivalent, used for both literal and figurative short-sightedness. Common in formal and written contexts.
その決定は近視眼的だ。
That decision is short-sighted.
Literally 'only thinking about what's in front of one's eyes'. A very natural, conversational way to describe short-sighted thinking.
彼は目先のことしか考えない。
He only thinks about immediate concerns.
Means 'lacking foresight'. A more formal expression often used in evaluations.
その計画には先見の明がない。
That plan lacks foresight.
Literally 'narrow field of vision'. Used figuratively to mean narrow-minded or short-sighted.
彼の考え方は視野が狭い。
His way of thinking is narrow-minded.
A concise, somewhat literary term meaning imprudence or short-sightedness.
短慮な行動は避けるべきだ。
You should avoid rash actions.
私は近視です。
I am short-sighted.
A slightly more colloquial term for myopia, often used in everyday conversation.
彼は近眼だから眼鏡をかけている。
He wears glasses because he's short-sighted.