Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a blind person requires sensitivity to context and politeness. The most common and neutral term is 視覚障害者 (shikaku shōgaisha), meaning 'visually impaired person'. More direct terms like 盲人 (mōjin) exist but can sound blunt or outdated. In casual conversation, descriptive phrases are often used instead of a single noun.
Referring to a blind person in a respectful, everyday context.
The standard, neutral term for a visually impaired person. Suitable for most situations, including formal and written contexts.
駅で視覚障害者の方を見かけました。
I saw a blind person at the station.
A polite, descriptive phrase meaning 'a person with visual difficulties'. Common in spoken Japanese and media.
目の不自由な人のための案内があります。
There is guidance for blind people.
A direct term for a blind person. Can be used in formal or technical contexts (e.g., 盲学校 'school for the blind'), but may sound blunt in casual conversation.
Avoid using this term casually as it can sound insensitive.
盲人用の点字ブロックが敷かれています。
Tactile paving for blind people is installed.
Specifically means a totally blind person, as opposed to someone with low vision. Used in medical or precise contexts.
彼は全盲の人ですが、一人で生活しています。
He is totally blind, but lives independently.
Talking about blindness in informal settings without using a specific label.
A straightforward, descriptive phrase meaning 'a person who cannot see'. Natural in casual conversation.
目が見えない人でも楽しめるゲームです。
It's a game that even blind people can enjoy.
A politer version of 目が見えない人, using 方 (かた) to show respect. Suitable when speaking about someone you don't know well.
目の見えない方に席を譲りました。
I gave up my seat to a blind person.
Referring to blind people in historical or traditional contexts.
Used historically for blind musicians, masseurs, or acupuncturists (e.g., 盲人音楽家).
江戸時代には盲人の職業として按摩がありました。
In the Edo period, massage was a profession for blind people.
A historical term for a blind person, especially one belonging to a guild of blind performers or masseurs. Rarely used outside historical contexts.
座頭市は有名な映画のキャラクターです。
Zatoichi is a famous movie character.
While 盲人 (mōjin) is a direct translation, it can sound blunt or clinical. In everyday conversation, use 目の不自由な人 (me no fujiyū na hito) or 視覚障害者 (shikaku shōgaisha) to be more respectful.
あの人は目が不自由です。
That person is blind.
視覚障害者 (shikaku shōgaisha) is the modern, inclusive term used in official documents and media. 盲人 (mōjin) is older and more direct, often found in compound words like 盲導犬 (mōdōken, guide dog) but less common as a standalone noun.