monovision: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Specialized
Quick answer
What does “monovision” mean?
A vision correction technique where one eye is corrected for distance vision and the other eye for near vision.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A vision correction technique where one eye is corrected for distance vision and the other eye for near vision.
In broader terms, the concept of using two separate inputs (often one for each eye) to create a single, blended perceptual experience. Also used metaphorically to describe a singular or narrow focus.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both, confined to optical and medical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “monovision” in a Sentence
undergo monovisionopt for monovisionuse monovisioncorrect with monovisionVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “monovision” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The optometrist suggested we could monovision the right eye for reading.
- They decided to monovision his prescription.
American English
- The doctor said we could monovision the left eye for distance.
- We will monovision the lenses to achieve the blend.
adverb
British English
- The lenses are fitted monovision-style.
American English
- The contacts were prescribed monovision.
adjective
British English
- She has a monovision contact lens setup.
- The monovision approach requires neuroadaptation.
American English
- He is a monovision patient.
- They discussed the monovision correction during the consultation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used.
Academic
Used in optometry, ophthalmology, and vision science papers.
Everyday
Rare; only used by individuals discussing their vision correction options with an eye care professional.
Technical
Standard term in optometric practice for a specific presbyopia management technique.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “monovision”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “monovision”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “monovision”
- Confusing 'monovision' with 'monocular vision' (vision using only one eye).
- Using it as a general term for poor eyesight.
- Treating it as a countable noun (e.g., 'a monovision').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are completely different. Monovision is an intentional, corrective technique. A lazy eye (amblyopia) is a disorder of visual development.
No. It depends on individual visual needs, brain adaptability, and lifestyle. It is not suitable for people who require precise depth perception, like pilots.
No, it is a non-invasive correction method. It does not cause physical damage, though some people cannot adapt to the visual sensation.
A variation where one eye is fully corrected for distance, and the other eye is corrected for an intermediate distance, often with a multifocal lens for near tasks.
A vision correction technique where one eye is corrected for distance vision and the other eye for near vision.
Monovision is usually technical/specialized in register.
Monovision: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɒnə(ʊ)ˌvɪʒ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɑːnəˌvɪʒ(ə)n/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MONO (single) track for VISION: one eye on the distance track, the other on the near track, but your brain merges them into one picture.
Conceptual Metaphor
VISION IS A DUAL-CHANNEL SYSTEM (where each channel is tuned to a different task).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of monovision?