partially sighted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "partially sighted" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to someone who has a visual impairment that slightly impairs their sight, but is not total blindness. For example: "The partially sighted man used a cane to navigate his way around the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

(Jessie) Registering as blind or partially sighted: "He said that you could be registered as part-sighted.

BMJ Open

I am partially sighted.

Independent

And I'm also partially sighted.

The Guardian

I am partially sighted, but they can't see.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yes, there are crooks who happen to be partially sighted.

The Guardian - Opinion

For services to information technology for partially sighted people.

The Guardian

Believe it or not, Eric Westbrook, partially sighted, works these out in his head!

The Guardian

Luckily the C1 is designed with the partially sighted in mind.

The Guardian - Tech

As I'm partially sighted, I do the race with a guide and use a tandem bike.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

For services to Blind and Partially-Sighted People.

Independent

This is designed for blind or partially-sighted users.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about individuals with visual impairments, prioritize person-first language (e.g., "a person who is "partially sighted"" rather than "a "partially sighted" person") to emphasize their identity over their condition.

Common error

Refrain from assuming that all "partially sighted" individuals have the same level of visual ability or require the same accommodations. Recognize and respect the diversity of experiences within this group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "partially sighted" functions as an adjective phrase to describe the condition of having limited vision. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It modifies nouns referring to people or animals with a visual impairment, as demonstrated in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

22%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "partially sighted" is a grammatically correct and widely used term to describe individuals with limited vision who are not completely blind. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's crucial to use respectful and accurate language, such as person-first phrasing (e.g., "a person who is "partially sighted""). While alternatives like "visually impaired" and "low vision" exist, "partially sighted" remains a common and accepted term, particularly in news and media, scientific, and general contexts. Always avoid generalizations and acknowledge the diverse experiences of individuals with visual impairments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

visually impaired

A more general term encompassing a range of visual disabilities, including partial sight.

low vision

Focuses on the level of vision, indicating that sight is limited but not entirely absent.

sight impaired

Similar to visually impaired, but slightly more direct and less clinical.

limited vision

Describes the condition in terms of the extent of sight available.

poor eyesight

A common and easily understood way to refer to reduced visual acuity.

weak eyesight

Suggests that the vision is not strong or robust.

partially blind

A more direct, though sometimes less preferred, synonym indicating significant vision loss.

having impaired vision

Expresses the condition as a state of possessing reduced sight.

with limited sight

Focuses on the fact that the person's ability to see is restricted.

vision-impaired

A hyphenated form of visually impaired, often used in a descriptive context.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "partially sighted"?

Being "partially sighted" means having a visual impairment that reduces sight but isn't total blindness. The term indicates that some vision remains, though it may be limited or impaired.

Is "partially sighted" the same as "blind"?

No, "partially sighted" is not the same as "blind". Blindness implies a complete or near-complete loss of vision, while "partially sighted" indicates some remaining vision, even if it's significantly impaired. Alternatives include "visually impaired" and "low vision".

What are some alternative phrases for "partially sighted"?

Alternatives to "partially sighted" include "visually impaired", "low vision", or "sight impaired". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

How can I write respectfully about people who are "partially sighted"?

Use person-first language (e.g., "a person who is "partially sighted""), avoid making assumptions about their abilities, and be mindful of the language you use. Terms like "visually impaired" are often preferred over outdated or insensitive terms.