Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having two distinct optical powers or focal lengths: Describes a lens, especially in eyeglasses, that is divided into two sections, each with a different focal power, typically to correct both near and far vision.
   • Relating to or designed for two different purposes or viewpoints: Used metaphorically to describe something that addresses or considers two distinct aspects or perspectives.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • My grandfather wears bifocal glasses to read and to see things in the distance.
  • The new policy takes a bifocal approach, focusing on both economic growth and environmental protection.

Advanced Usage

• "Bifocal vision": Can refer literally to the corrected vision provided by bifocal lenses, or metaphorically to the ability to consider both immediate details and long-term strategy.
  • The CEO's bifocal vision allowed the company to manage daily operations while planning for future expansion.

Variants and Related Words

• Bifocals (n, plural): Eyeglasses with bifocal lenses.
  • She got her first pair of bifocals last year.

Synonyms

• Dual-focus: Having two areas of optical focus.
• Two-part: Consisting of two distinct sections or aspects.

Different Meanings

• The primary and most common meaning is optical, relating to corrective lenses. The metaphorical use is an extension of this core meaning, applying the concept of two focuses to abstract ideas like strategy or analysis.

Adjective

1. having two foci
   • bifocal eyeglasses