At the Optometrist (eye doctor)
I wear contact lens and I’m sure a lot of you wear them or glasses, so I thought it might be nice to learn a few words and phrases you could use if you need to go to the optometrist.
contact lens (contacts) and glasses – used to correct vision
far-sighted – You are unable to see things close up, but you can see things far away.
near-sighted – You are unable to see things far away, but you can see things close up.
bifocals – glasses with 2 distinct optical powers
prescription – This is what the doctor writes so you can get either contact lens or glasses. It is for a specific power of lenses. Contact lens prescriptions are only valid for 1 year.
reading glasses – Glasses that are used for reading. You do not need a prescription for these glasses.
20/20 vision – This is the same as 6/6 vision for my metric readers. 20/20 is in feet.
Here’s a dialog you can practice which is a typical conversation one would have with an eye doctor.
Dr. – Hi, how can I help you today?
You – I’m having difficulty seeing lately.
Dr. – Do you wear glasses or contacts?
You – Yes, I do. I have contacts on right now.
Dr. – Oh, perfect. Let’s do your eye test with your lens on and see how you do. Can you read the last line?
You – No.
Dr. – Which line is the lowest you can read?
You – The 3rd line is E, A, O, M, P
Dr. – Good. However, I think your vision has gotten worse, so you’ll need to get a new prescription. Can you take your lens off and we’ll start again and see what your new prescription is?
You – Sounds great.
I need your help, Yvonne. I don’t know how to use them. These are correct?
I have week-sighted.
I have near-sighted.
I have astigmatism.
Hi Ellie,
I don’t think you can say I have weak-sighted. Maybe I have weak sight.
I am near-sighted and I have an astigmatism.
I hope that helps. Let me know if you have any questions!
Yvonne
Thank you for your help, Yvonne 🙂 I can express about my eye sight in English from now on. 🙂
Perhaps, “I’m weak-sighted” is correct?! 😀
I think I have 20/30 with an astigmatism. I need to wear my glasses when I drive a car especially at night.
I’ve never heard anyone say weak-sighted. Either near or far sighted is what I’ve used and heard.
Oh, I see. I just got it! Thanks a million, Yvonne!! 🙂 I always enjoy learning from you. 🙂
I’m so glad I could help. Sorry it took so long to reply to that last question! I’ll be better now! 😉 Thanks so much for your support.
how about when we have problems with eye retine ,
Dear Yvonne,
I need to introduce about eyewear store interior design to my student in english. Could you please help me to find out where I can get it?