At the A1 level, you only need to know that 視力 (shiryoku) means 'eyesight.' You will mostly use it with simple adjectives like 'good' (ii) or 'bad' (warui). For example, '私の視力はいいです' (My eyesight is good). You might see this word on a basic health form or hear it when someone talks about their glasses. At this stage, don't worry about the kanji too much; just remember the sound 'shiryoku' and that it relates to how well you can see. It is a useful word to know if you need to tell a teacher or a friend that you cannot see the whiteboard clearly. You should also recognize that in Japan, eyesight is measured in numbers like 1.0 or 0.5. If you see a number next to this word, it is telling you how strong someone's vision is. Keep your sentences short and focus on the basic 'Subject + wa + shiryoku + ga + ii/warui' pattern. This will allow you to communicate your basic physical needs regarding your vision without needing complex grammar.
At the A2 level, you should be able to use 視力 (shiryoku) in slightly more complex sentences, particularly those involving physical exams or daily habits. You should learn the phrase '視力検査' (shiryoku kensa), which means 'eye exam.' Since A2 learners often talk about school or work routines, knowing that 'shiryoku kensa ga arimasu' (there is an eye exam) is very helpful. You can also start using verbs like 'ochiru' (to fall/drop) to describe vision getting worse: '視力が落ちました' (My eyesight has dropped). You might also mention glasses (megane) or contact lenses (kontakuto) in the same context. For example, '視力が悪いので、眼鏡をかけています' (Because my eyesight is bad, I wear glasses). This level requires you to connect your vision status to your actions. You should also be aware that Japan uses a decimal system for vision, so being able to say 'shiryoku wa 1.0 desu' is a great practical skill for living in Japan.
At the B1 level, you are expected to use 視力 (shiryoku) in a variety of social and semi-formal contexts. You should understand the difference between '裸眼視力' (ragan shiryoku - uncorrected vision) and '矯正視力' (kyōsei shiryoku - corrected vision with glasses). This is important for things like driver's license applications or medical checkups. You should be comfortable using the word with particles like 'を' (o) in phrases like '視力を測る' (to measure eyesight) or '視力を維持する' (to maintain eyesight). You might also discuss the reasons for vision changes, such as 'PCの使いすぎで視力が低下した' (Eyesight declined due to overusing the PC). At this level, you can participate in conversations about health and lifestyle, offering advice or sharing experiences about eye care. You should also be able to read short articles or posters in clinics that use this word to explain how to protect your eyes. Your vocabulary should now include related terms like '低下' (teika - decline) and '回復' (kaifuku - recovery).
At the B2 level, you should be able to use 視力 (shiryoku) in technical or abstract discussions. You might talk about '動体視力' (dōtai shiryoku - dynamic visual acuity) in the context of sports or '夜間視力' (yakan shiryoku - night vision) when discussing driving safety. You should be able to explain the impact of technology on public health, such as how '近視' (kinshi - nearsightedness) affects the average shiryoku of the population. You can use more sophisticated verbs like '損なう' (sokonau - to damage/harm) or '矯正する' (kyōsei suru - to correct). For example, 'レーシック手術で視力を矯正した' (I corrected my eyesight with LASIK surgery). You should also understand the cultural significance of eye health in Japan, such as the annual school exams and the specific standards required for certain professions. At this level, your ability to use shiryoku should feel natural in both professional medical settings and deep personal conversations about health and aging.
At the C1 level, your understanding of 視力 (shiryoku) should extend to its use in formal reports, scientific literature, and nuanced literature. You should be able to discuss the physiological mechanisms of '視力' and how it differs from '視覚' (visual perception) or '視野' (field of vision) in a technical sense. You might encounter this word in legal contexts, such as the minimum 'shiryoku' requirements for various classes of professional licenses or disability benefits. You should be able to use the word in metaphorical ways if necessary, although '視野' is more common for metaphors. However, discussing the 'visual acuity' of a society's surveillance systems or the 'precision' of an optical instrument might involve shiryoku in a comparative sense. You should be able to articulate complex ideas about how lifestyle factors like 'VDT (Visual Display Terminal) work' lead to '視力障害' (visual impairment) and advocate for preventative measures using high-level Japanese grammar and vocabulary.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of 視力 (shiryoku) and its place within the broader lexical field of Japanese. You can effortlessly switch between casual mentions of eye health and highly specialized ophthalmological discourse. You understand the historical development of the term and how it relates to the evolution of medical practices in Japan, such as the adoption of the Landolt Ring. You can analyze academic papers on '視力回復' (vision recovery) or '視力測定' (vision measurement) methodologies. Your usage is characterized by perfect collocations and an awareness of the subtle connotations that shiryoku carries in different professional fields, from aviation to medicine to digital ergonomics. You can debate the ethics of vision-enhancing technologies or the societal implications of a population with declining 'shiryoku.' At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a precise tool used to navigate the most complex and specialized areas of the Japanese language.

視力 30초 만에

  • Shiryoku is the noun for 'eyesight' or 'visual acuity' in Japanese, used in medical, school, and daily contexts.
  • It is measured numerically in Japan, with 1.0 being the standard for good vision, unlike the 20/20 system.
  • Common verbs used with shiryoku include 'ii' (good), 'warui' (bad), 'ochiru' (to drop), and 'hakaru' (to measure).
  • It specifically refers to the ability to see clearly, distinct from 'me' (the eye) or 'shikaku' (the sense of sight).

The Japanese word 視力 (shiryoku) is a fundamental noun used to describe one's visual acuity or the physical power of the eyes to perceive detail. Etymologically, it is composed of two kanji characters: 視 (shi), which means 'to look,' 'to inspect,' or 'vision,' and 力 (ryoku), which means 'power,' 'strength,' or 'ability.' Together, they literally translate to 'vision power.' In everyday Japanese life, this term is ubiquitous, appearing in medical contexts, school health checkups, and casual conversations about glasses or contact lenses. Unlike the English term 'eyesight,' which can sometimes be used vaguely, shiryoku often refers specifically to the numerical measurement of how well one can see. In Japan, this is typically measured using the Landolt C chart (the broken circle), and the results are expressed in decimals like 1.0 (equivalent to 20/20) or 0.1 (very poor vision).

Medical Context
In an ophthalmology clinic (眼科 - ganka), the staff will measure your 視力 using various specialized machines and charts. You will often hear the phrase '視力を測る' (shiryoku o hakaru), which means to measure one's eyesight.
Social Context
When discussing why someone wears glasses, you might ask '視力はどのくらいですか?' (What is your eyesight level?). It is a common topic among students and office workers who spend long hours looking at screens.

最近、スマートフォンの使いすぎで視力が落ちてしまったようです。
(Lately, it seems my eyesight has dropped because I use my smartphone too much.)

Understanding the nuances of shiryoku also involves knowing the verbs associated with it. When your vision improves, you use 回復する (kaifuku suru). When it declines, you use 低下する (teika suru) or the more casual 落ちる (ochiru). If you have naturally good vision, you are said to have 視力がいい (shiryoku ga ii). Conversely, if you struggle to see, you have 視力が悪い (shiryoku ga warui). It is important to note that shiryoku refers to the ability itself, not the eyes as physical organs (which would be me). Therefore, you wouldn't say your 'eyes are bad' in a medical sense using shiryoku; you would say your 'vision power' is low.

Furthermore, shiryoku is used in technical terms such as 矯正視力 (kyōsei shiryoku), which refers to your vision when wearing glasses or contacts, and 裸眼視力 (ragan shiryoku), which refers to your uncorrected vision (naked eye). This distinction is crucial when applying for jobs like pilots or police officers in Japan, where specific uncorrected vision standards are often mandatory. The concept of shiryoku extends into the digital age with discussions about 'Blue Light' (ブルーライト) and its effects on the long-term health of one's vision. In summary, shiryoku is not just a medical term but a vital part of the Japanese vocabulary concerning health, lifestyle, and self-assessment.

Using 視力 (shiryoku) correctly requires an understanding of Japanese particles and specific collocations. Since it is a noun representing a measurement or ability, it most frequently functions as the subject of a sentence or the object of a verb related to measurement or change. The most basic construction is [Person] no shiryoku wa [Adjective] desu (Person's eyesight is [adjective]). However, more dynamic sentences involve the progression of vision health over time.

Describing Quality
To say someone has sharp vision: 「彼は非常に視力が良いので、遠くの文字も読めます。」 (Because his eyesight is very good, he can read characters far away.)
Describing Change
To describe deteriorating vision: 「年を取るにつれて、視力が低下するのは避けられない。」 (As one ages, the decline of eyesight is unavoidable.)

運転免許の更新には、一定以上の視力が必要です。
(To renew a driver's license, you need eyesight above a certain level.)

When you want to talk about checking your eyes, you use the verb 検査する (kensa suru). For example, '視力検査を受ける' (shiryoku kensa o ukeru) means to undergo an eye exam. This is a very common phrase during the Japanese school year in April, when all students are tested. If you are discussing the results of such a test, you might say '視力が1.5に上がった' (My eyesight improved to 1.5) or '視力が0.5まで下がった' (My eyesight dropped to 0.5). Note that Japanese uses the decimal system, so 1.0 is the standard for 'normal' vision, and anything above that (1.2, 1.5, 2.0) is excellent.

In more formal or academic writing, shiryoku is often paired with 維持 (iji - maintenance) or 保護 (hogo - protection). For instance, '視力の維持に努める' (strive to maintain one's eyesight). If you are referring to the loss of sight entirely, the term 失明 (shitsumei) is used, but shiryoku is the standard term for the varying degrees of vision quality. Another useful pattern is shiryoku ni eikyō o ataeru (to affect one's eyesight), often used in health warnings about screen time or poor lighting. By mastering these patterns, you can accurately describe your physical condition and navigate medical or professional environments in Japan with ease.

The word 視力 (shiryoku) is encountered in a variety of specific Japanese environments. The most common place is the 眼科 (ganka - eye clinic). Upon entering, you will likely see signs for '視力検査室' (shiryoku kensa shitsu - vision testing room). The nurse or technician will ask you to look into a machine and say, '視力を測りますので、あごをのせてください' (I'm going to measure your eyesight, so please place your chin on the rest). This is an essential experience for anyone living in Japan who wears glasses.

At the Optician
When buying glasses at stores like JINS or Zoff, the staff will ask: 「現在の視力に合わせてレンズを調整しますか?」 (Shall we adjust the lenses to your current eyesight?)
In Schools
Every spring, Japanese schools hold 'kenkō shindan' (health checkups). Teachers will announce: 「明日は視力検査があるので、眼鏡を忘れないように。」 (There is an eye test tomorrow, so don't forget your glasses.)

免許センターの視力検査に合格しないと、運転はできません。
(If you don't pass the eye test at the license center, you cannot drive.)

You will also hear shiryoku on television programs related to health (健康番組 - kenkō bangumi). These shows often feature segments on how to prevent shiryoku teika (eyesight decline) by doing eye exercises or eating foods rich in lutein and blueberries. In the workplace, during 'ergonomics' or 'health and safety' briefings, employers might discuss the shiryoku of employees who work primarily on computers (VDT work), emphasizing the need for regular breaks to avoid eye strain. In the sports world, commentators might praise an athlete's 'dynamic eyesight' (動体視力 - dōtai shiryoku), which is the ability to see moving objects clearly, a crucial skill for baseball players or racing drivers.

Finally, in the realm of technology and gaming, you will see shiryoku mentioned in the settings or safety warnings of VR (Virtual Reality) headsets. Manufacturers often warn that prolonged use may affect the shiryoku of young children whose eyes are still developing. Whether it is a serious medical discussion or a casual chat about a new pair of stylish frames, shiryoku is the go-to word for anything involving the clarity and strength of human vision in the Japanese-speaking world.

While 視力 (shiryoku) is a straightforward term, English speakers often make mistakes by confusing it with related concepts like 'eyes' (目), 'vision/sight' (視覚), or 'field of vision' (視野). One of the most common errors is using me (eye) when shiryoku is required. For example, saying '私の目は0.1です' (My eyes are 0.1) is technically understood but sounds slightly unnatural compared to '私の視力は0.1です' (My eyesight is 0.1). Remember: me is the organ; shiryoku is the capability.

Shiryoku vs. Shikaku
Don't confuse 視力 with 視覚 (shikaku). 視力 is the sharpness of vision, whereas 視覚 is the entire sense of sight (one of the five senses). You wouldn't say 'My 視覚 is bad' when you mean you need glasses.
Shiryoku vs. Shiya
Another common mix-up is with 視野 (shiya), which means 'field of vision.' If you can't see things to your side, your 視野 is narrow, but your 視力 (central sharpness) might still be perfect.

❌ 視力が高い (shiryoku ga takai) - Wrong
✅ 視力がいい (shiryoku ga ii) - Correct
(In Japanese, eyesight is 'good/bad' or 'high/low' in terms of numbers, but 'ii/warui' is the standard for quality.)

Another mistake involves the verbs used for 'losing' eyesight. In English, we say 'I am losing my eyesight.' In Japanese, using shiryoku o nakusu is very dramatic and usually implies going completely blind. For gradual decline, always use shiryoku ga ochiru (eyesight falls) or teika suru (declines). Additionally, learners sometimes confuse shiryoku with ganriki (目力), which refers to the 'power' or 'intensity' in someone's gaze (like a charismatic look). If you tell someone they have 'strong shiryoku,' they might think you are complimenting their ability to see small objects from a distance, not their striking eyes.

Lastly, avoid using shiryoku when talking about 'visibility' due to weather conditions. If it's foggy and you can't see the road, the word is shikai (視界), as in '視界が悪い' (visibility is poor). Using shiryoku here would imply that the fog has somehow physically damaged your eyes' ability to see, rather than just blocking the view. By distinguishing these similar-sounding terms, you will sound much more like a native speaker and avoid confusing your listeners in medical or safety-critical situations.

To truly master the vocabulary surrounding vision, it is helpful to compare 視力 (shiryoku) with its synonyms and related terms. While shiryoku is the most common word for visual acuity, other terms offer more specific nuances depending on the context, whether it's medical, metaphorical, or related to physical perception.

視覚 (Shikaku)
Meaning 'sense of sight.' This is used in biological or psychological contexts. For example, '視覚障害' (shikaku shōgai) means visual impairment. It refers to the system of seeing rather than the sharpness of the image.
視界 (Shikai)
Meaning 'visibility' or 'range of vision.' Use this when talking about the environment. '霧で視界がゼロだ' (Visibility is zero due to fog). It describes what is visible to the eye at a given moment.
視野 (Shiya)
Meaning 'field of vision.' This is used both physically (the area you can see without moving your eyes) and metaphorically (one's perspective or horizons). '視野を広げる' (to broaden one's horizons).

Comparison:
1. 視力がいい (Has sharp eyes)
2. 視界がいい (The view is clear/unobstructed)
3. 視野が広い (Has a wide field of view or broad perspective)

In a more casual setting, you might hear 目 (me) used as a shorthand for shiryoku. For example, '目が悪い' (me ga warui - eyes are bad) is the most common way to say 'I have poor eyesight' in daily conversation. However, in any official capacity—like filling out a form or talking to a doctor—shiryoku is the required term. Another interesting related word is 眼力 (ganriki), which can mean 'insight' or the ability to discern the true nature of things, similar to the English 'keen eye' for detail in a non-physical sense.

For those interested in technical or literary Japanese, 明視 (meishi) refers to 'clear vision,' though it is rarely used in conversation. If you are describing someone who is very observant, you might say they are 目ざとい (mezatoi), meaning 'sharp-eyed' or 'quick to notice.' Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the word that fits the level of formality and the specific type of 'seeing' you wish to describe. While shiryoku is the foundation, these alternatives provide the colors and shades necessary for advanced Japanese proficiency.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

In ancient times, eyesight was not measured numerically; people simply compared who could see the stars more clearly at night.

발음 가이드

UK /ʃiː.rjɒ.kuː/
US /ʃi.rjoʊ.ku/
The pitch accent is typically 'Atamadaka' (Type 1), meaning the first syllable 'shi' is high and the rest are low.
라임이 맞는 단어
Kioku (memory) Chiryoku (intellect) Ryoku (power) Kyoku (song/office) Gyoku (gem) Hyoku (standard) Ryoku (green) Iyoku (will/desire)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'ryo' as two syllables 'ri-yo'.
  • Using an English 'r' sound instead of the Japanese flap.
  • Extending the final 'u' sound too long.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'shiryoku' (historical materials), though the accent is different.
  • Mispronouncing the 'shi' as 'si'.

난이도

독해 3/5

The kanji are common but require B1 level knowledge.

쓰기 4/5

The kanji for 'shi' (視) has many strokes and is easy to miswrite.

말하기 2/5

The pronunciation is simple and follows standard patterns.

듣기 2/5

Easy to distinguish in medical or school contexts.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

見る 強い 弱い

다음에 배울 것

視覚 視野 視点 眼鏡 検査

고급

屈折 網膜 角膜 白内障 緑内障

알아야 할 문법

Potential Form

遠くがよく見える。 (I can see far away well.)

Noun + ni yoru (Due to)

スマホによる視力低下。 (Eyesight decline due to smartphones.)

Adjective + naru (Become)

視力が悪くなる。 (Eyesight becomes bad.)

Node (Because)

視力が悪いので、眼鏡を買う。 (Because my eyesight is bad, I'll buy glasses.)

Tame ni (For the sake of)

視力維持のために運動する。 (Exercise for the sake of maintaining eyesight.)

수준별 예문

1

私は視力がいいです。

I have good eyesight.

Simple Subject + wa + Noun + ga + Adjective structure.

2

視力が悪いです。

My eyesight is bad.

Uses 'warui' to describe poor quality.

3

あなたの視力はいくつですか?

What is your eyesight (number)?

'Ikutsu' is used to ask for the numerical value.

4

田中さんは視力が1.5です。

Mr. Tanaka's eyesight is 1.5.

Directly stating the decimal value.

5

右の視力は1.0です。

The eyesight in my right eye is 1.0.

Specifying which eye's vision is being discussed.

6

視力が落ちました。

My eyesight has dropped.

Past tense of 'ochiru' (to fall/drop).

7

これは視力のテストです。

This is an eyesight test.

Noun + no + Noun structure.

8

眼鏡で視力を助けます。

I help my eyesight with glasses.

Using 'de' to indicate the means/tool.

1

今日、学校で視力検査がありました。

Today, there was an eye exam at school.

Compound noun 'shiryoku kensa'.

2

視力が悪いので、一番前の席に座ります。

Because my eyesight is bad, I sit in the very front seat.

Using 'node' to show cause and effect.

3

最近、視力が少し下がった気がします。

Lately, I feel like my eyesight has gone down a little.

'Ki ga shimasu' expresses a feeling or impression.

4

コンタクトレンズで視力を矯正しています。

I am correcting my eyesight with contact lenses.

'Kyōsei shite imasu' is the continuous form of 'to correct'.

5

視力を測ってください。

Please measure my eyesight.

Polite request using 'te kudasai'.

6

暗いところで本を読むと、視力が悪くなりますよ。

If you read books in a dark place, your eyesight will get bad.

Conditional 'to' used for natural consequences.

7

私の裸眼視力は0.1以下です。

My uncorrected eyesight is below 0.1.

'Ragan shiryoku' refers to vision without glasses.

8

視力が回復するように、目を休みます。

I will rest my eyes so that my eyesight recovers.

'Yō ni' indicates a purpose or goal.

1

運転免許の更新には、0.7以上の視力が必要です。

To renew a driver's license, eyesight of 0.7 or higher is required.

Uses 'ijō' for 'or more' and 'hitsuyō' for 'necessary'.

2

長時間のスマホ使用は、視力低下の原因になります。

Long-term smartphone use causes a decline in eyesight.

Compound noun 'shiryoku teika' (eyesight decline).

3

彼女は矯正視力が1.0あるので、生活に支障はありません。

She has corrected eyesight of 1.0, so there are no issues in her daily life.

'Kyōsei shiryoku' refers to vision with aids.

4

このサプリメントは視力の維持に効果があると言われています。

This supplement is said to be effective for maintaining eyesight.

'Iwarete iru' means 'it is said that'.

5

定期的に視力検査を受けることをお勧めします。

I recommend undergoing regular eye exams.

'Koto o osusume shimasu' is a polite recommendation.

6

ブルーライトカットの眼鏡で、視力を守りましょう。

Let's protect our eyesight with blue-light-blocking glasses.

Volitional form 'mamorimashō'.

7

彼は生まれつき視力が非常に弱いです。

He has had very weak eyesight since birth.

'Umaretsuki' means 'by nature' or 'from birth'.

8

視力が安定するまで、手術は待ったほうがいいです。

You should wait for surgery until your eyesight stabilizes.

'Stable' is 'antei suru'.

1

動体視力を鍛えるために、特別なトレーニングをしています。

I am doing special training to improve my dynamic visual acuity.

'Dōtai shiryoku' is vision while tracking motion.

2

加齢に伴い、多くの人が視力の衰えを感じ始めます。

With aging, many people begin to feel a decline in their eyesight.

'Tomonai' means 'along with' or 'as a result of'.

3

パイロットになるためには、厳しい視力基準をクリアしなければならない。

To become a pilot, one must clear strict eyesight standards.

'Kijun' means 'standards' or 'criteria'.

4

レーシック手術は、視力を劇的に向上させる可能性があります。

LASIK surgery has the potential to dramatically improve eyesight.

'Kōjō saseru' is the causative form of 'to improve'.

5

視力障害を持つ人々が使いやすい街づくりが求められている。

Urban planning that is easy for people with visual impairments to use is being demanded.

'Shiryoku shōgai' is a formal term for visual impairment.

6

最新のコンタクトレンズは、夜間の視力もサポートしてくれます。

The latest contact lenses also support night vision.

'Support' is used as a loanword.

7

仕事柄、目を酷使するので視力の低下が心配です。

Due to the nature of my job, I overuse my eyes, so I'm worried about my eyesight declining.

'Kokusishi' means 'to overuse' or 'to abuse'.

8

視力の測定方法は、国によって異なる場合があります。

Methods for measuring eyesight may vary by country.

'Kotonaru' is a formal word for 'to differ'.

1

現代社会において、VDT作業による視力への悪影響は看過できない問題だ。

In modern society, the negative impact on eyesight from VDT work is an issue that cannot be overlooked.

'Kanka dekinai' means 'cannot be overlooked'.

2

彼の視力は、事故の後遺症によって著しく損なわれた。

His eyesight was significantly impaired due to the aftereffects of the accident.

'Ichijirushiku' means 'remarkably' or 'significantly'.

3

視力の個人差を考慮した、適切な照明設計が必要である。

Appropriate lighting design that takes individual differences in eyesight into account is necessary.

'Kōryo shita' means 'having considered'.

4

幼児期の視力発達を妨げないよう、環境を整えることが重要だ。

It is important to prepare the environment so as not to hinder the development of eyesight in early childhood.

'Samatagenai' means 'to not hinder/obstruct'.

5

視力という主観的な感覚を客観的に評価するのは難しい。

It is difficult to objectively evaluate the subjective sensation known as eyesight.

'Shukanteki' (subjective) vs 'Kyakkanteki' (objective).

6

この光学機器は、人間の視力の限界を超える解像度を誇っている。

This optical device boasts a resolution that exceeds the limits of human eyesight.

'Hokotte iru' means 'to boast' or 'to take pride in'.

7

視力が衰えても、他の感覚がそれを補うことができる。

Even if eyesight fails, other senses can compensate for it.

'Oginau' means 'to compensate' or 'to supplement'.

8

視力検査の精度を高めるために、新しいアルゴリズムが導入された。

To increase the precision of eye exams, a new algorithm has been introduced.

'Seido' means 'precision' or 'accuracy'.

1

視力の減退は、単なる老化現象に留まらず、QOLの著しい低下を招く恐れがある。

The decline of eyesight is not merely a phenomenon of aging but carries the risk of leading to a significant drop in Quality of Life.

'Maneku osore ga aru' means 'there is a fear/risk of leading to'.

2

網膜の機能不全が、結果として視力の全喪失に繋がるケースも少なくない。

There are many cases where retinal dysfunction leads to a total loss of eyesight.

'Sukunaku nai' is a double negative meaning 'many'.

3

視力の多様性を認めることは、インクルーシブな社会を構築する上で不可欠だ。

Recognizing the diversity of visual acuity is indispensable in building an inclusive society.

'Fukaketsu' means 'indispensable'.

4

本研究は、栄養状態が視力に及ぼす長期的影響を定量的に分析したものである。

This study quantitatively analyzed the long-term effects of nutritional status on eyesight.

'Teiryōteki' means 'quantitatively'.

5

視力の矯正技術は、眼鏡からコンタクト、そして屈折矯正手術へと劇的な進化を遂げた。

Vision correction technology has undergone a dramatic evolution from glasses to contacts, and then to refractive surgery.

'Shinka o togeta' means 'achieved evolution'.

6

視力検査の結果は、被験者の体調や検査環境によって微妙に左右される。

The results of an eye exam are subtly influenced by the subject's physical condition and the testing environment.

'Sayū sareru' means 'to be influenced/governed by'.

7

視力という窓口を通じて、我々は世界の情報の大部分を享受している。

Through the window of eyesight, we enjoy the vast majority of the world's information.

'Kyōju shite iru' means 'to enjoy/receive benefits'.

8

視力の喪失をめぐる哲学的考察は、人間の知覚の本質を問い直すものである。

Philosophical reflections on the loss of eyesight re-examine the essence of human perception.

'Toinaosu' means 'to question again'.

자주 쓰는 조합

視力がいい
視力が悪い
視力を測る
視力が落ちる
視力が低下する
視力を矯正する
視力を維持する
視力が回復する
視力検査を受ける
裸眼視力

자주 쓰는 구문

視力検査

— An eye exam or vision test.

年に一度は視力検査に行きます。

動体視力

— Dynamic visual acuity; the ability to see moving objects.

プロの選手は動体視力がすごい。

矯正視力

— Corrected vision (with glasses or contacts).

私の矯正視力は1.2です。

裸眼視力

— Uncorrected vision (naked eye).

裸眼視力が低いので困る。

視力障害

— Visual impairment.

視力障害者への配慮が必要です。

視力基準

— Eyesight standards/requirements.

警察官には視力基準がある。

視力低下

— Decline in eyesight.

子供の視力低下が問題だ。

視力回復トレーニング

— Vision recovery training/exercises.

視力回復トレーニングを試す。

両眼視力

— Binocular vision (both eyes together).

両眼視力を測定する。

片眼視力

— Monocular vision (one eye).

片眼視力に差がある。

자주 혼동되는 단어

視力 vs 視覚

Shikaku is the 'sense' of sight, Shiryoku is the 'sharpness' of vision.

視力 vs 視界

Shikai is the environmental 'visibility', Shiryoku is your eye's 'ability'.

視力 vs 視野

Shiya is the 'field' or 'range' of what you see.

관용어 및 표현

"視界に入る"

— To come into view or be noticed.

変な男が視界に入った。

Neutral
"視野に入れる"

— To take into consideration.

留学も視野に入れている。

Neutral
"目から鱗が落ちる"

— To have the scales fall from one's eyes; a sudden realization.

彼の説明で目から鱗が落ちた。

Common
"長い目で見る"

— To take a long-term view.

子供の成長を長い目で見る。

Common
"一目置く"

— To recognize someone's superiority; to tip one's hat to.

彼の才能には誰もが一目置いている。

Common
"目を皿にする"

— To open one's eyes wide (in search or surprise).

落とし物を探して目を皿にする。

Literary
"節穴"

— Eyes like knotholes (unable to see what is obvious).

お前の目は節穴か!

Slang/Informal
"お目が高い"

— To have a discerning eye (for quality).

これを選ぶとは、お目が高いですね。

Polite
"目も当てられない"

— Too terrible to look at.

テストの結果は目も当てられない。

Neutral
"目が回る"

— To be dizzy or extremely busy.

忙しくて目が回るようだ。

Common

혼동하기 쉬운

視力 vs 聴力

Similar structure (Sense + Power).

Chiryoku is hearing ability, Shiryoku is seeing ability.

聴力検査と視力検査を両方受けた。

視力 vs 知力

Sounds similar (Chiryoku).

Chiryoku (知力) is intellectual power/intelligence.

彼は知力も視力も高い。

視力 vs 死力

Homophone (Shiryoku).

Shiryoku (死力) means 'all one's might' (literally 'death power').

死力を尽くして戦う。

視力 vs 視線

Starts with 'Shi'.

Shisen is one's 'gaze' or the direction one is looking.

視線を感じる。

視力 vs 視点

Starts with 'Shi'.

Shiten is a 'point of view' or 'perspective'.

違う視点から見る。

문장 패턴

A1

[Person] wa shiryoku ga ii/warui.

私は視力がいい。

A2

Shiryoku ga [Number] ni naru.

視力が0.8になった。

B1

Shiryoku o iji suru tame ni [Action].

視力を維持するためにブルーベリーを食べる。

B2

[Cause] de shiryoku ga teika suru.

暗い場所での読書で視力が低下する。

C1

Shiryoku no [Noun] wa [Issue] da.

視力の低下は社会的な問題だ。

C2

Shiryoku ni oyobosu [Effect] o bunseki suru.

視力に及ぼす影響を分析する。

B1

Shiryoku kensa o ukeru.

明日、視力検査を受ける。

B2

Kyōsei shiryoku de [Number] aru.

矯正視力で1.0ある。

어휘 가족

명사

視覚 (Sight)
視野 (Field of vision)
視点 (Point of view)
視線 (Gaze)

동사

視察する (To inspect)
視認する (To visually confirm)
視る (To look - rare kanji)

형용사

視覚的な (Visual)

관련

眼科
眼鏡
近視
遠視
乱視

사용법

frequency

High (especially in health and education domains).

자주 하는 실수
  • 私の目は1.2です。 私の視力は1.2です。

    While 'me' is used casually for quality (ii/warui), when stating a specific number, 'shiryoku' is much more natural.

  • 視力が高いですね。 視力がいいですね。

    In Japanese, we use 'good/bad' for eyesight quality, not 'high/low', even though it's a number.

  • 霧で視力が悪いです。 霧で視界が悪いです。

    Use 'shikai' for environmental visibility (fog, rain). 'Shiryoku' is your internal physical ability.

  • 視力を失いました(for needing glasses)。 視力が落ちました。

    'Shiryoku o ushinau' means you went completely blind. For needing glasses, use 'ochiru'.

  • 視覚を測る。 視力を測る。

    'Shikaku' is the sense of sight. You measure the 'power' (shiryoku), not the sense itself.

Using Particles with Shiryoku

When describing your eyesight quality, use 'ga'. 'Shiryoku ga ii' is the standard. If you use 'wa', it sounds like you are comparing eyesight to something else, like 'My eyesight (wa) is good, but my hearing is bad'.

The 1.0 Standard

Remember that 1.0 is the magic number in Japan. If a child gets a 1.0 on their school physical, parents are happy. If it drops to 0.7 (the limit for driving without glasses), they start worrying. Learn the decimal system to communicate effectively.

Compound Nouns

Many useful words are formed by adding suffixes to 'shiryoku'. 'Kensa' (exam), 'teika' (decline), and 'kaifuku' (recovery) are the most important ones to memorize for B1 learners.

Casual Alternatives

In very casual settings, you'll hear 'me ga ii' or 'me ga warui'. While 'shiryoku' is correct, using 'me' makes you sound more like a native speaker in relaxed conversations with friends.

Blueberries and Shiryoku

In Japan, there is a strong cultural belief that blueberries are good for your 'shiryoku'. You will see many supplements and snacks marketed this way. Mentioning this is a great conversation starter about health.

Don't Forget the 'Shi'

The kanji 視 is used in many vision-related words. Once you learn it for 'shiryoku', you can easily recognize 'shikai' (visibility), 'shiya' (field of vision), and 'shikaku' (sight).

License Requirements

If you plan to drive in Japan, you must pass a 'shiryoku kensa'. The requirement is usually 0.7 for both eyes together. If you fail, they will add a condition to your license saying '眼鏡等' (Glasses etc. required).

Avoid 'High/Low'

While 'shiryoku' is a number, Japanese people rarely say 'shiryoku ga takai' (high). They almost always say 'shiryoku ga ii' (good). However, they DO say 'shiryoku ga teika suru' (decline/lower).

School Announcements

In anime or Japanese schools, 'shiryoku kensa' is a classic 'slice of life' event. Listening for this word will help you understand scenes set in infirmaries or health classrooms.

Stroke Order

The kanji 視 has 11 strokes. The left side (礻) is often confused with (衤). In 視, it is definitely the 4-stroke '礻' (alt form of 見 but actually related to 'to see'). Wait, actually, 視 is 11 strokes: 見 on the right, and the left is the 'shi' radical. Correcting this: the left part is 示 (5 strokes) and the right is 見 (7 strokes). Total 12 strokes. Focus on the 'see' radical!

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'SHE' (視) looking with 'POWER' (力). 'She has the power to see!'

시각적 연상

Imagine a giant '1.0' symbol glowing inside a human eye.

Word Web

Eye Glasses 1.0 Doctor Chart Laser Light Focus

챌린지

Try to find the 'Landolt Ring' on a Japanese website and guess what your 'shiryoku' number is.

어원

Comes from Middle Chinese roots. '視' (shi) means to see/examine, and '力' (ryoku) means power/strength.

원래 의미: The physical power of the eyes to discern objects.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

문화적 맥락

Be careful when discussing 'shiryoku' with those who have visual disabilities; use formal terms like 'shiryoku shōgai'.

Westerners use 20/20, which confuses Japanese people who use 1.0. 'Eyesight' is broader in English, while 'shiryoku' is more clinical.

Masayoshi Son (Softbank CEO) often discusses the 'vision' for the future. Manga characters with 'God-like' vision. Japanese eye drop commercials.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Eye Clinic

  • 視力検査をお願いします。
  • 視力が下がりました。
  • 眼鏡を作りたいです。
  • 目がかすみます。

School

  • 視力検査の結果です。
  • 眼鏡をかけてください。
  • 黒板が見えません。
  • 目が疲れました。

DMV / License Center

  • 視力検査を受けます。
  • 眼鏡等が必要です。
  • 基準に足りません。
  • もう一度測ります。

Workplace

  • VDT作業で視力が落ちた。
  • 休憩を取りましょう。
  • 画面が明るすぎます。
  • 視力維持が大切です。

Sports

  • 動体視力がいい。
  • ボールがよく見える。
  • 視力を鍛える。
  • 反応が速い。

대화 시작하기

"視力はいいほうですか? (Is your eyesight on the good side?)"

"いつから眼鏡をかけていますか? (Since when have you been wearing glasses?)"

"視力を良くするために何かしていますか? (Are you doing anything to improve your eyesight?)"

"最後に視力検査をしたのはいつですか? (When was the last time you had an eye exam?)"

"スマホの使いすぎで視力が落ちると思いますか? (Do you think overusing smartphones makes eyesight drop?)"

일기 주제

最近の自分の視力について書いてください。 (Write about your recent eyesight.)

もし視力が急に良くなったら何をしたいですか? (If your eyesight suddenly became great, what would you want to do?)

子供の視力低下についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the decline in children's eyesight?)

初めて眼鏡をかけた時の思い出を書いてください。 (Write about your memories of when you first wore glasses.)

視力を守るために毎日気をつけていることは? (What do you take care of every day to protect your eyesight?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

In Japan, a score of 1.0 or higher is considered 'good' or 'normal' vision. This is roughly equivalent to 20/20 vision in the US system. Scores can go up to 2.0 or even higher in rare cases, though most charts stop at 2.0. If your score is below 0.7, you might be advised to get glasses for driving.

You can say '視力検査を受けたいです' (Shiryoku kensa o uketai desu). This is useful at a clinic or a glasses shop. If you are asking a doctor to check your eyes, you can also say '視力を測ってください' (Shiryoku o hakaru kudasai).

While it is most commonly used for humans, you can technically use it for animals in a scientific context. For example, 'タカは視力が非常にいい' (Hawks have very good eyesight). However, in daily life, it is almost exclusively about people.

Generally, no. For 'vision' in a metaphorical sense (like a business vision), the word 'vision' (ビジョン) or 'tenbō' (展望) is used. For 'insight' or 'perspective', use 'shiya' (視野) or 'shiten' (視点). Shiryoku is strictly for physical visual acuity.

It is a standard noun. It is formal enough for medical documents but common enough for children to use. It is more precise than 'me' (eye), which is often used casually to mean the same thing.

There isn't a single direct opposite noun, but 'shitsumei' (失明 - loss of sight) or 'shiryoku shōgai' (視力障害 - visual impairment) are used to describe the lack of eyesight. To describe bad vision, use 'shiryoku ga warui'.

Japan uses the Landolt C chart. It consists of circles with gaps at the top, bottom, left, or right. The person being tested points or says the direction of the gap. This is different from the Snellen chart (letters) used in many Western countries.

In Japanese medical discussions, '視力回復' (shiryoku kaifuku) is a common topic. While true nearsightedness rarely reverses, people often talk about exercises or habits to 'recover' vision that has declined due to eye strain or fatigue.

Yes, a big one. 'Shiryoku' is how well you see. 'Ganriki' (眼力) is the 'power' or 'force' of your gaze, or your ability to judge people and things correctly (insight). You wouldn't use 'ganriki' at an eye doctor.

The verb 'ochiru' (to fall/drop) is used because vision is measured on a numerical scale. When the number goes from 1.0 to 0.5, it has physically 'dropped' on the chart. It's the most common way to say eyesight is getting worse.

셀프 테스트 184 질문

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'My eyesight is 1.0.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I have an eye exam tomorrow.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'My eyesight has dropped recently.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I wear glasses because my eyesight is bad.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain in Japanese (1 sentence) what 'shiryoku' is.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'To maintain eyesight, please take breaks.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'What is your uncorrected eyesight?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The pilot passed the vision standard.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe why someone might go to an eye clinic (using 'shiryoku').

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'shiryoku teika' (eyesight decline).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Her corrected vision is 1.2.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Does this medicine affect eyesight?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I want to improve my dynamic visual acuity.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The accident damaged his eyesight.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a formal sentence about eye health.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Eyesight is measured with Landolt rings.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'My right eye has better vision than the left.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Please look at the chart for the eye exam.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about aging and eyesight.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I had my eyesight measured at the hospital.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

あなたの視力はいいですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

眼鏡やコンタクトを使っていますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

視力検査は好きですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

最後に視力を測ったのはいつですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

スマホの使いすぎで視力が落ちたことがありますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

視力を守るために、何をしていますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

あなたの国の視力検査はどうやってやりますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

レーシック手術についてどう思いますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

視力が悪いことで困ることは何ですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

子供の視力低下を防ぐにはどうすればいいですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

あなたの裸眼視力はどのくらいですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

眼鏡をかけると視力はいくつになりますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

動体視力がいいスポーツ選手を知っていますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

視力検査の結果が急に悪くなったらどうしますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

視力と聴力、どちらが大切だと思いますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

暗いところで本を読むのは視力に悪いと思いますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

仕事で一日中PCを使いますか?視力は大丈夫ですか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

眼鏡なしで映画を見ることができますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

視力検査の「ランドルト環」を知っていますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

将来、視力を回復させる技術はもっと進むと思いますか?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the nurse: '視力を測りますので、こちらへどうぞ。' What is the nurse going to do?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '視力が落ちたので、新しい眼鏡を買いました。' Why did they buy glasses?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '検査の結果、右が1.0、左が0.8でした。' What was the vision in the right eye?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '裸眼視力が低いので、運転時は眼鏡が必要です。' When do they need glasses?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'スマホを控えたら、視力が少し回復した。' How did they recover vision?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '矯正視力が1.2あるので問題ありません。' Is their corrected vision okay?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '視力検査の表、一番下まで見えますか?' What is the speaker asking?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '動体視力を鍛えるアプリを使っています。' What kind of app is it?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '視力低下を防ぐために、遠くの山を見ましょう。' What should you look at to prevent decline?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'この仕事の視力基準は厳しいですよ。' Are the vision standards easy?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '加齢で視力が衰えるのは自然なことです。' Is aging vision loss natural?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '視力検査の結果、再検査が必要になりました。' What happened after the test?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'レーシックで視力が劇的に良くなった。' How much did their vision improve?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '視力障害者へのサポートを強化する。' What is being strengthened?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '視力は健康のバロメーターです。' What does the speaker compare eyesight to?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 184 correct

Perfect score!

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