Definitions

myopic

[mahy-op-ik, -oh-pik] / maɪˈɒp ɪk, -ˈoʊ pɪk /

ADJECTIVE

able only to see things near at hand

Synonyms

STRONGEST

nearsighted shortsighted

WEAK

astigmatic biased blind halfsighted presbyopic

Antonyms

WEAK

far-sighted

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for myopic?

The literal sense of myopic means the same thing as nearsighted or shortsighted—meaning a person can’t see distant things clearly. The medical term for this condition is myopia, and mypoic is its adjective form. Myopic is commonly used in a metaphorical way. It can describe a person who doesn’t thoroughly think things through, or it can describe things, such as decisions or plans, that lack foresight. A decision or plan considered myopic could be described as ill-advised or ill-considered. Nearsighted and shortsighted can also be used in this metaphorical way. Myopic can also be used to describe someone considered narrow-minded or closed-minded—intolerant or lacking understanding.

What is the opposite (antonym) of myopic?

In terms of literal eyesight, myopia (nearsightedness) could be considered the “opposite” of farsightedness, technically known as hyperopia, whose adjective form is hyperopic (hypermetropic and hypermetropical are also used). The word farsighted can be considered an antonym of both the literal and figurative senses of myopic. It suggests foresight or prudent planning. The opposite of the sense of myopic meaning narrow-minded or closed-minded is open-minded or tolerant.

Where does myopic come from?

The word myopic comes from a Greek word meaning “nearsighted,” or, more literally, “blinking.” It’s a combination of roots meaning “shut” and “eye.” The first records of the word myopic in English come from the late 1700s.

How do you use myopic in a sentence?

Myopic is commonly used in a metaphorical sense. It’s often applied to poorly thought-out plans or decisions, or to the people who make them. Here are some examples of myopic in a sentence:

My optometrist says I’m myopic.
Their plan seems particularly myopic—there are several potential consequences they clearly haven’t considered at all.
He has been criticized for being myopic about social issues.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But recall that the Smithsonian’s mission was and is “the increase and diffusion of knowledge” — not advancing a particular understanding of America’s racial past or even to celebrate a myopic view our founding.

From Salon

Bertoldi’s albums have been nominated three times in the past, but the rock and alternative fields are simply too narrow and myopic for this brash, self-produced gem.

From Los Angeles Times

Americans are so myopic about their own history, if not downright ignorant, that some minorities think they’re being welcomed into the Heritage Americans fold by Vance and his ilk.

From Los Angeles Times

Lyonne’s consistently myopic defense demonstrates an almost childish reluctance to listen, one that has painted an increasingly confusing picture now that Lyonne is moving into directing.

From Salon

So not understanding and having that myopic view or wish now, being 61 — I have three children, I have a career, I have a foundation, I have a husband.

From Los Angeles Times

myopic

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

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