What is the Difference Between Eyesight and Vision?

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The terms "eyesight" and "vision" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Eyesight: Eyesight refers to a person's ability to see, specifically their ability to see without the use of appliances like glasses or contacts. It is determined by factors such as the amount of light entering the eye, the shape of the pupil, the shape of the eyeball, and the presence of a lens. Eyesight can be measured, and poor eyesight can be improved through prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.
  • Vision: Vision, on the other hand, refers to how the brain processes the information coming from the eyes. It is the ability to process what we see in order to understand and act on that information. Vision is a more dynamic and interactive process, combining information from multiple sensory systems to create a perception of reality. Examples of vision problems include binocular vision problems, lazy eye (amblyopia), eye turn (strabismus), eye strain or eye fatigue, and color blindness.

In summary, eyesight is the physical ability to see, while vision is the brain's ability to process and understand the information coming from the eyes.

Comparative Table: Eyesight vs Vision

The main difference between eyesight and vision is that eyesight refers to the ability of the eyes to see, while vision refers to the brain's interpretation of the information received from the eyes. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Eyesight Vision
Refers to the ability of the eyes to see Refers to the brain's interpretation of the information received from the eyes
Measured using tools like Snellen Eye Chart Assessed using tests that evaluate the brain's ability to process visual information
Can be improved with corrective lenses or surgery May require additional interventions, such as therapy or training, to improve
Focuses on the physical ability to detect and discern objects and patterns Encompasses not only eyesight but also the brain's capacity to understand and respond to visual stimuli

In summary, eyesight is the physical ability of the eyes to detect and discern objects and patterns, while vision is the broader concept that includes the brain's interpretation and understanding of the information received from the eyes.