Words / B2

YS-yt/ˈaɪsaɪt/

Eyesight is the ability to see (usually uncountable): poor eyesight; eyesight test. Vision is a close twin; sight is everyday; acuity is the clinical twin. Quote the eyesight score in the medicals table, then the units. Mix-up: eyesight vs insight; eyelash (this batch); do not write eyesight for a named disease such as glaucoma unless the source uses eyesight.

Meaning

The ability to see (usually uncountable).

Examples

• “Quote the eyesight score in the medicals table, then the units, not an advert.”
• “Failing eyesight featured in the occupational-health note, which is still a named test — quote the chart if given.”

Good to know

poor / good eyesight; an eyesight test. Close: vision / sight. Clinical: acuity. Trap: insight / a named eye disease with no sight score. Biology and PSHE. Ability to see — quote the score or the chart.

Near in meaning

vision, sight, visual acuity

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